Aurelio and Skrtel set for Liverpool return

Liverpool’s long injury list could be slashed early next month with the return to action of defenders Martin Skrtel and Fabio Aurelio, coach Rafael Benitez said.

Aurelio sustained an injury to his right thighh in the 2-1 win over Blackburn on February 28 and his absence has been a major headache for manager Rafael Benitez as it has left him with only Emiliano Insua at left-back.

The 21-year-old has been exposed in recent weeks, notably by Wigan’s Charles N’Zogbia and Manchester United’s Antonio Valencia, but Benitez has had no option but to continue playing the Argentinian.

Aurelio’s return cannot come quick enough to give Insua a break as a difficult season looks like it has taken its toll.

Centre-back Skrtel’s absence has not been noticed as much as Benitez has been able to call on a combination of Jamie Carragher, Daniel Agger and Sotirios Krygiakos.

The Slovakian has been out since breaking a bone in his right foot in the Europa League tie against Unirea Urziceni in Romania on February 25.

“Both are still injured and will need some time, but it’s only a question of a couple of weeks. It depends for each one,” said Benitez.