Details on Gerrard’s level of fitness for the weekend remain fuzzy, although the latest reports have at least confirmed that a groin injury is at the root of the problem.

According to reports, Liverpool have confirmed that Gerrard has suffered a slight groin strain. He will be assessed further tomorrow but Rafa has apparently indicated that even if considered fit enough to face Blackburn, he may well be rested for Tuesday’s second leg with Chelsea.

For me, Rafa desperately wants to keep his skipper fresh for the Champions League tie and these reports of a confirmed injury only help to justify that decision to the Liverpool fans, the press and managers of other sides threatened by relegation who won’t be too pleased should Blackburn get anything from their Anfield visit.

Gerrard’s absence would likely see Kuyt shifted to a central attacking role, with Benayoun introduced on the right. Both would therefore come into consideration for fantasy managers this weekend.