Steven Gerrard has been included in Liverpool's squad for Saturday's Premier League clash with Blackburn, despite picking up a thigh strain in the 3-1 UEFA Champions League defeat to Chelsea in midweek. Boss Rafa Benitez could be willing to risk the midfielder against Rovers telling the club's official website: "Steven has some problems with his adductor. He will be in the squad but we still have to decide whether he will start.

"It is not very serious but we need to analyse the risk for the future as well. We know it's a very important game, so we'll decide tomorrow.

"We have to think about the best for Stevie and the team - both things together.

"This is a very important game, so we know it will be really good if he can play. But if we were to lose him for the next few weeks it could be a big risk.

"I will talk with him and the doctor on Saturday morning before deciding."