Gerrard in line for starting role

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is set to make a long-awaited return to their starting line-up for the clash with Manchester United.

Gerrard, 31, has been in rehabilitation for more than seven months after suffering an injury against the champions at Anfield in March.

The injury led to an operation at the end of the campaign, but an infection after the surgery pushed him back in his recovery.

After three substitute appearances in the English Premier League so far this season, Gerrard could start for Kenny Dalglish’s side on Saturday.

“A fit Steven Gerrard strengthens this football club, no ¬question. If you have Steven in your squad, it’s going to raise the profile and standard,” Dalglish said on Tuesday.

“We want to have a really strong squad – and him being in it makes it that much stronger.”

Gerrard’s return could force midfielder Jordan Henderson, who has started six of the seven matches so far this season, onto the bench.

But the former Sunderland man, who scored in England under-21s 2-1 win over Norway in Euro 2013 qualifying on Monday, said he needed to stay focused on his own game.

“I am not really worried about that, I think it’s part and parcel of football,” Henderson said.

“Obviously Stevie is a massive player and is going to play in most games, but I just need to concentrate on what I need to do and make sure I work hard every day in training.”

“Given the opportunity, I need to take it and make sure I stay in the team.”

Glen Johnson, who has been out with a hamstring injury, could earn a place on the bench at Anfield, while fellow defender Daniel Agger is unlikely to be fit after hurting his ribs in the 4-0 loss to Tottenham on September 18.