Liverpool assistant boss Sammy Lee says the return to full fitness of defender Martin Skrtel is like a new signing.

"Martin is back training with us which is a great boost for us," Lee told liverpoolfc.tv.

"He actually joined in the training session with us on Saturday and trained today.

"Everybody is so pleased to see him back on the pitch because he has worked ever so hard in his rehabilitation, and it's great to see him back.

"It's like signing a new player and he will be needed."