Steven Gerrard ruled out

Liverpool go into their game with Manchester City on Sunday without captain Steven Gerrard, who still does not have a date of return to action.

The England international has had injury problems over the last 12 months, and after returning from a groin operation picked up a new ailment in the form of an ankle knock.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish has confirmed that Gerrard is making strides in the right direction, but will miss the visit of Roberto Mancini’s men.

“Like we’ve already said, we are delighted with the progress he’s making and we’ve said that we won’t put a date on his return – and we won’t put a date on it now,” the Scottish coach told Sky Sports News.

“We are very happy with his progress. Everyone is available (for Sunday) apart from Steven and Jack Robinson.”

The Merseysiders should go into the match-up full of confidence after beating Chelsea last weekend, and Dalglish has praised Glen Johnson, who scored a late winner at Stamford Bridge.

“Well he’s fit. He’s playing really well. We are delighted with the way he’s been playing,” Dalglish concluded.

The Reds are three points adrift of the top four, and will look to show that they are Champions League qualification contenders with a positive result against the current Premier League leaders.

By Gareth McKnight