Johnson eyes Liverpool return

Glen Johnson is targeting Liverpool’s clash with Manchester United at Anfield on October 15 as his possible return from injury.

The 27-year-old defender has been missing since he picked up a hamstring injury in the Reds’ 1-0 defeat to Stoke City in September.

But the England international is hoping that he will make his return against the club’s fierce rivals from Manchester, even if he may not be ready to start.

“I’m feeling good at the moment and I’ve been doing plenty of running,” Johnson told the club’s official website.

“I’ve just started doing ball work outside in training so I reckon it won’t be too long now.”

“I’m working hard and it would be nice to be back in the squad for the Man United game. Hopefully I can make the bench anyway, so fingers crossed.”

Meanwhile, summer signing Jordan Henderson has vowed to fight for his first-team place after being overlooked for last weekend’s Merseyside derby.

Dirk Kuyt was preferred on the right flank for the 2-0 win at Everton, with Henderson restricted to a late substitute appearance replacing Lucas.

It was the first Premier League game the 20-year-old has failed to start since his 16 million pound move from Sunderland.

But, answering fans’ questions on Twitter, Henderson told of his determination to knuckle down while admitting his ideal position would instead be in the centre of midfield.

“I’m not concerned because that’s part of being a footballer,” said the England international.

“It’s how you respond to setbacks. I’ll make sure I work hard always.”

“I prefer (the) centre but I’m always happy to play where the manager says and just want to be playing football.”