Dalglish plays patient game with Gerrard

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish said Steven Gerrard will not be rushed back into first-team action.

The midfielder returned from a groin injury during Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Blackburn Rovers on Boxing Day and netted after coming off the bench against Newcastle United on December 30.

Gerrard also came on as a substitute during Liverpool’s 3-0 defeat at the hands of Premier League leaders Manchester City, despite calls from fans to start the match.

Dalglish, however, has urged patience towards Gerrard’s inclusion and the Scot admits he is aware of the dangers involved in bringing a player back too soon.

“Stevie is improving his level of fitness all the time but we have to be very careful as to how he prepares,” Dalglish said.

“It would be wrong of us to be negligent and throw him in and undo all the good work he has done so far. We would love to have him back fit and well but we just have to be a bit patient.”