Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard admits he suffered from a World Cup hangover at the start of last season.

He said: "When I joined up with the lads last year after the World Cup I felt like I hadn't had a break. I wanted more time off because I didn't feel ready mentally or physically.

"This time round I've had a long rest and I was looking forward to coming back in and having a game of football after three and a half weeks.

"At this stage I still feel quite a bit away from full fitness, but obviously it's still early. We've still got a few weeks to go and I'll be ready by the time Aston Villa comes around, don't worry about that."