Source: Daily_Mail
Steven Gerrard pleased to put six months of injury hell behind him
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is pleased his 'nightmare' is finally over after ending a six-month injury lay-off.The England midfielder played the last 15 minutes of the Reds' 2-1 Carling Cup win at Brighton on Wednesday, his first appearance since a groin operation in March.Gerrard would have been back sooner had he not picked up an infection in late July which set him back a few more weeks but the 31-year-old is now looking to reclaim his regular spot in the first team. Welcome back: Steven Gerrard makes his long awaited return as a 75th minute substitute 'It was good to be back with the lads,' he said.'I'd been out a long time and it was fantastic to be out there in that kit again and it was nice to get a win as well.'It's been a nightmare for me. I'm not the best when I'm out injured and watching games.'It's been tough and the last six months have been a rollercoaster.'But it's behind me now and I'm looking forward to getting match fit and getting back in the starting line-up.' Into the action: Gerrard took no time adjusting to life back on the pitchCraig Bellamy and Dirk Kuyt gave the Reds a comfortable lead and Ashley Barnes' late penalty did not change the outcome.The competition is being taken seriously by manager Kenny Dalglish and Gerrard is hopeful they will be rewarded with a good run.'We're glad to be in the draw for the next round and we're looking forward to seeing who we get in the draw on Saturday,' added the midfielder. Bench warmer: Steven Gerrard jokes with Jonjo Shelvey before coming on'We haven't been to a major cup final for a long time.'We have to take every cup seriously and when there's no Europe that makes it easier to put strong sides out. Hugs all round: Gerrard celebrates with Dirk Kuyt after the Dutchman scored Liverpool's second goal'Kenny has assembled a fantastic squad now with a couple of good players in each position.'Even when he mixes it around or rests people we still put a strong side out like last night.' Dalglish buoyed by Gerrard's Liverpool return following injury lay-offBrighton 1 Liverpool 2: Dalglish's men bounce back but Poyet's Bright sparks give their allCarragher believes Gerrard's return will boost Liverpool's season All the latest Liverpool news, features and opinion