Gerrard sets Euro target

Stephen Gerrard has confirmed he expects to be back in Liverpool’s first team for their final two Champions League group phase clashes.

The England midfielder visited a specialist today on Friday and was told that he can step up his training next week and start running again.

Gerrard has not played since he broke a metatarsal in his foot on September 20 at Manchester United.

But he has the Premiership match at Middlesbrough on November 20 as his target for a comeback, which would be nine weeks from the date of the injury.

But Gerrard says he may be fit for the previous week’s home match with Crystal Palace.

Based on that target, he will definitely be available for the final European group matches away to Monaco on November 23 and at home to Olympiacos on December 8.

Liverpool travel to face Deportivo La Coruna next Wednesday without Gerrard, who said: “I had a meeting with the specialist today and everything was really positive. I have been given the go-ahead to start running again and all going well I could be back training with the lads in two weeks.

“It was music to my ears and I am delighted with the news. It has been difficult but the physios here at the club and the doctor have been brilliant. I am happy with the way things are going and I can definitely now see light at the end of the tunnel.”

He added: “If I really pushed it I could probably be back for the Palace game on November 13, but I think a more realistic target would be Middlesbrough away the week after.

“I do not want to rush things unnecessarily and I will probably play in a practice game beforehand. If there are no complications along the way I should definitely be involved in the trip to Boro.”