Pool skipper played after dental surgery

LIVERPOOL skipper Steven Gerrard was at the centre of a hospital drama hours before the Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.

The midfielder had to have surgery to remove a painful mouth abscess after he suffered a sleepless night and dental surgeons treated him in time for him to play a key role in Wednesday night’s match.

It is understood Gerrard, 24, had been suffering increasing pain for a few days beforehand.