Liverpool's Steven Gerrard out injured until September

30 July 2011 18:36
Steven Gerrard will miss at least the first month of the season in a doubleblow for Liverpool and England.[LNB]The Liverpool captain is in hospital after contracting an infection in the groin injury which caused him to miss the final 10 weeks of last season.[LNB][LNB] Blow: Steven Gerrard (left) will be out of action until September[LNB]Gerrard, 31, will sit out England's Wembley friendly against Holland andLiverpool's first three Premier League matches.[LNB]His availability for the Euro 2012 qualifying matches against Bulgaria and Wales in early September is also in serious doubt.[LNB] Out: Gerrard's last appearance came against Manchester United in March[LNB]Liverpool said in a statement: 'Steven Gerrard today began a course ofantibiotic treatment for an infection related to an ongoing groin problem.[LNB]'He is expected to remain in hospital for several days while the precautionary procedure is completed. [LNB]'The player will then return to Melwood to continue his rehabilitation programme and is expected to be available for selection in September.'[LNB]Gerrard has been dogged by groin problems for years and seems to be paying for playing through the pain barrier against Manchester United on March 6.[LNB]He had an injection before the game, which was seen as crucial if Liverpool were to help stop United winning arecord 19th English title.[LNB] Chance: Alberto Aquilani may be required at Liverpool following Gerrard's injury[LNB]Liverpool won 3-1, but United went on to be champions and Gerrard hasnot played since. His team appeared to thrive in his absence, putting together a good run under returning manager Kenny Dalglish.[LNB]But they have endured a difficult pre-season, letting in 12 goals in four warm-up matches. [LNB]Gerrard's absence will put pressure on midfield signings Jordan Henderson and Charlie Adam as the club seek to avoid a repeat of their appalling start to last season.[LNB] CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE FANTASY FOOTBALL GAMEGalatasaray 3 Liverpool 0: Dalglish's pre-season woe continuesNo go, Alberto: Aquilani's Liverpool nightmare continues as Fiorentina switch collapsesAll the latest Liverpool news, features and opinion [LNB]

Source: Daily_Mail