Hamann out for four months

LIVERPOOL manager Gerard Houllier was trying to remain upbeat yesterday after Dietmar Hamann was ruled out for four months. The German midfielder is the third squad member to suffer an injury this summer.

New signings Harry Kewell and Steve Finnan have also had spells on the sidelines. Houllier said: “It is a blow for the player and for the club. Things like this show why it is so important that we have a strong squad.

Hamann’s injury could give Senegal international Salif Diao a chance to establish himself alongside Steven Gerrard in the team.