Gerrard doubt for Chelsea clash - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Gerrard doubt for Chelsea clash

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has revealed that captain Steven Gerrard is a doubt for his side's Champions League semi-final first-leg tie with Chelsea on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old missed the Reds 2-0 Barclays Premier League win over Fulham with a neck injury and Benitez is unsure if he will be fit to face the Blues at Anfield.

Benitez said: "I was talking with the physios today (Saturday) and he [Gerrard] is improving but it is still too soon [to say if he will be fit for Chelsea]."

He added: "You always have to be careful with the neck - he has been scoring a lot of goals with his head."

But the Spaniard did have some positive news on defender Sami Hyypia who should be fit to play despite being withdrawn at half-time after a clash of heads which left him feeling dizzy.

"I think he'll [Hyypia] be okay - he felt a little bit dizzy after a knock to the head but I think it's okay now. Mascherano had three knocks but I think he too is okay."

Meanwhile, Chelsea boss Avram Grant has admitted he would love to take Gerrard to Stamford Bridge after revealing his admiration for the midfielder.

Grant said: "Gerrard is a great player and a great person. For me, he is the player of the year in England, and maybe in Europe, because of the influence he has on the team.

"I like him very much as a player and I know him. He is a nice guy and an example to others. He plays against me but he is still my favourite player."

Chelsea have previously tried to sign Gerrard and Grant added: "If you can bring him to me, I will be happy."

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