Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard admits his injury-plagued 2011 has been a personal nightmare.

Gerrard, 31, was just returning to full match fitness two months ago when he suffered another infection, this time in his ankle.

The made his latest comeback as a substitute against Blackburn on Boxing Day and thanked the Liverpool fans for their support during his time on the sidelines.

"It's just great to be back involved again and be back with my team-mates," the England star told the Liverpool Echo.

"The last eight weeks have been really long. It was a freak injury and coming so soon after being out for so long with my groin it's been absolute torture.

"I've just had to work so hard to get back again and now I'm looking forward to playing games.

"Coming on against Blackburn was special. The reception I got when I came on was really touching and it meant a lot to me.

"There have been a lot of lonely days in the gym this year when you struggle to motivate yourself. But moments like that on Monday night make it all worthwhile.

"The support I've had from the supporters throughout has been magnificent and I want to thank them for that."