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Gerrard back for Reds on Wednesday

23/11/2008

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has revealed Steven Gerrard will return in Wednesday's Champions League clash with Marseille.

Gerrard missed yesterday's 0-0 draw with Fulham and England's 2-1 win over Germany in the midweek friendly with a groin injury.

But the Reds skipper has returned to training and is set to start against Marseille at Anfield.

The Spaniard said his side cannot use the absence of Gerrard for yesterday's draw against the Cottagers which sees them remain level with Chelsea at the top of the Premier League.

"We will always miss a player of Stevie's ability, but we did not beat Fulham because five or so players were all off form together," Benitez said.

"You cannot win games when that happens. He would have made a difference, yes, but it should not be an excuse."

Full-back Fabio Aurelio agreed that Liverpool should be able to win without Gerrard.

"We have played for two months without Fernando Torres, and that is a big loss, but managed to win matches," the Brazilian said.

"I have only been with him at Liverpool for a couple of years, but I know full well what he means to the club.

"But again we should not use as an excuse the fact that he was not playing against Fulham. It is too easy a thing to say.

"We have won games without Steven before, and we have good enough players to come into the side when he is not playing and still be able to win games."

A win for Liverpool against Marseille would see them clinch their place in the last 16.