Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is unlikely to risk skipper Steven Gerrard after tests revealed a slight strain to the adductor muscle.

The Sun says although it did not immediately mean a definite KO, it is hugely unlikely boss Benitez will risk him in tomorrow's must-win clash with Blackburn at Anfield.

Gerrard, 29, is also set to be on the bench at best when the Reds try to overturn their 3-1 first-leg deficit as they chase a place in the Champions League semi-finals at Chelsea on Tuesday.

That leaves his probable return for the Premier League showdown with Arsenal at Anfield on April 21 - but any slip-up against Blackburn could have already smashed their title dreams by then.