Liverpool have fallen in to a bit of a slump recently - at least by their high standards.

The Reds were still unbeaten in the Premier League and confident of making the next round of the Champions League just a couple of weeks ago. However, a loss against Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their round of 16 clash and their first league defeat this campaign, against Watford last Saturday, have seen them lose a bit of momentum.

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Their slight dip in form has coincided with the absence of Jordan Henderson. Whilst the 29-year-old did play 80 minutes against Los Rojiblancos, it is more his omission from the matches against West Ham, which required a late comeback after going 2-1 down, and Watford that has caused the Reds the most problems. After keeping nine clean sheets in a row, they have shipped five times in their last two league fixtures - twice against West Ham and thrice against the Hornets.

The captain has been in fantastic form so far this campaign - he has even been backed to be named Player of the Year - but it is not just the quality of his displays that has been missed. Henderson is one of the most vocal players in the Liverpool side, and his leadership in the middle of the park has been one of the most important components of their success under Jurgen Klopp. It is no surprise that he is sorely missed.

Fortunately, there is some good news for the the rest of the side - James Milner is back, as per Klopp himself. The 52-year-old has confirmed both Joe Gomez and the 34-year-old are once again available.

Of all the players at the former Borussia Dortmund boss' disposal, the 61-time former England international is the most experienced. This is, astonishingly, his 18th year in Premier League football - he has lifted the title twice, with Manchester City - and he knows the game inside out. Given the 5 foot 9 midfielder's experience, he is likely to be a respected player in the dressing room, and his presence at the FA Cup fourth-round replay against Shrewsbury indicates that he is comfortable as a senior figure handing out advice to others.

Liverpool are in no danger of failing to win the title - they remain 22 points clear - but they will still want to end the season on a high. Henderson is expected to return in a week or two, but in the meantime, Milner can help steady the ship through his experience and leadership - starting tonight, against Chelsea in the FA Cup.

That could be just enough to get Liverpool out of their slump and back to winning ways.

Elsewhere, Liverpool's campaign could soon turn from unforgettable to regrettable.