Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson expects skipper Steven Gerrard to be back in action when Fulham come to town this weekend.
The 30-year old midfielder has not played for the Reds since injuring his hamstring whilst on England duty on November 17 but is expected to take his place in the line-up for the vital clash with the Cottagers.
"Steven's on track for the weekend," Hodgson confirmed.
"He's worked very hard to get back and Steven and Jamie Carragher are the type who hate not playing.
"Steven has been determined to get back as quickly as possible. The physios are happy with him and he feels quite good.
The Reds boss added: "The big question when a player has a hamstring injury or a slight pull is when do you actually say he is totally fit and give him the go-ahead to play?
"We have to be careful there is no risk of the injury reoccurring and I am in the hands to some extent of the sports science people as to when he can come back.
"I take their word for it and I can't really push the subject because I would be devastated if we brought him back too early.
"But he still hopes he will be fit to play some part in the game against Fulham and so am I."
