Carra, Skrtel and Stevie injury update

Jimmy Rice at Melwood

13th Aug 2009 - Latest News

Rafa Benitez is hopeful of having centre-back pair Jamie Carragher and Martin Skrtel fit for the Barclays Premier League opener on Sunday - though Steven Gerrard faces a race against time to face Tottenham.

Click here to watch Rafa's Press Conference>>

Carragher limped off following a knock to the ankle during Liverpool's last pre-season friendly with Atletico Madrid, while Skrtel has been suffering from a hamstring injury.

News of their improvement comes as a major boost to Benitez, who is likely to be without the injured Daniel Agger this weekend.

The boss told his pre-match press conference: "Skrtel trained yesterday and hopefully he'll be fit. Carragher has been working with the physios today and we think he'll be available. Agger is also working with the physios but it will be more difficult for him."

Gerrard pulled out of England's friendly international with Holland this week due to a tight groin.

Benitez added: "I am really pleased because Mr Capello wanted to protect players. Because Gerrard had a problem they did a scan and pulled him out of the squad. We don't know if he'll be fit. He was working with the physios yesterday and today.

"If the game would have been on Saturday it would be difficult but because it's on Sunday he could have a chance."

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