Gerrard to miss Man City showdown

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard will miss Sunday’s clash with Manchester City, Reds manager Rafael Benitez confirmed on Friday.

Gerrard is struggling with a hamstring injury suffered in an FA Cup fourth round replay against Everton two weeks ago and, with Wednesday’s Champions League last 16 tie against Real Madrid in Spain looming, Benitez has opted not to risk the England midfielder.

“Steven will not be ready for this game,” Benitez told Liverpool’s website. “We don’t know if he’ll be back for the game in midweek but clearly he will not be involved against City.

“He is improving but we cannot take any risks so he won’t be in the squad.”