Gerrard should be fit in time to face Newcastle

(GETTY IMAGES)

Steven Gerrard is likely to face Newcastle on Sunday, according to the Liverpool manager, Rafael Benitez. The England midfielder has returned to training after recovering from a groin injury. It is a welcome boost for Liverpool, as they could be six points adrift of the Premier League leaders Manchester United come kick-off.

United are in action on Saturday when they face Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium. "Steven is doing well and is training with the rest of the team," Benitez said yesterday. "I think he will be fit and available for Sunday. It is good news for the team and for him because he can be a key player for us over the remaining games. Without Steven the squad has been playing well and scoring, so that is positive."

Benitez insists his thoughts are focused on the title and not potential business in the transfer market after Xabi Alonso was linked again with a move to Juventus. "I was reading the press and they are talking about different players," he said. "I can guarantee today that we are not thinking about selling anyone. All we are thinking about is the Premier League title. After that you never know what can happen in the market. At this moment, we are just preparing for winning games."