Rafa backs Gerrard to be focused on derby clash

LIVERPOOL boss Rafael Benitez is confident that captain Steven Gerrard can put his court appearance out of his mind when he faces Everton in the FA Cup tomorrow.

Gerrard appeared at North Sefton Magistrates’ Court yesterday to answer charges of assault and affray following an alleged incident in a Southport bar last month.

The midfielder made a brief appearance in court and did not make a formal plea, and the case was adjourned for a second hearing at the same court on March 20.