Liverpool FC

• Nickname:
• Founded:1892
• Manager:Kenny Dalglish

• Ground:
• Capacity:NaN

Benitez returns to hospital

14 Jan 2009 - 11:02:21

Click To Enlarge

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is set to go under the knife again for his troublesome kidney stones ahead of a Merseyside derby double-header.

Benitez has already had two operations to repair the problem, but the Spaniard has now been forced to return to hospital again.

First-team training will once again be left to assistant manager Sammy Lee, but the Liverpool veteran is hopeful the Spanish boss will be able to oversee proceedings in time for Everton's visit to Anfield on Monday evening.

Lee told the club's official website: "It's a difficult time for him because, you know Rafa Benitez - all he wants to do is be out there on the training pitch with his players. That's his forte. But he's still buoyant.

"He's going for the third operation but we're hoping it won't keep him out for too long - hopefully just a couple of days."

Liverpool take on Everton twice in six days next week, kick-starting a crucial period for the Reds.

By the time they take on their Merseyside neighbours, they could be knocked off the Premier League's summit by rivals Manchester United.