Liverpool have confirmed that Steven Gerrard is set for a four week spell on the sidelines. The announcement comes following consultation with a specialist which led to surgery on his troublesome groin.
In Fantasy Premier League (FPL) terms, this will come as a blow to Gerrard’s 6.8% ownership as the instrumental midfielder looks set to potentially miss at least the next two Premier League fixtures (BOL whm). The skipper will also sit out next Thursday’s crunch Europa League second leg fixture with Braga; Liverpool trail 1-0 from last night’s first leg.
Liverpool’s spot kicks will now be up for grabs in Gerrard’s absence. After scoring a memorable hat-trick against Manchester United last weekend, Dirk Kuyt may be at the front of the queue having already assumed duties this season. The Dutchman has been a key figure in Liverpool’s turn in fortune over the last few months and, with Gerrard out of action, holds plenty of potential. Luis Suarez may yet have something to say when it comes to spot-kick duty, the Uruguayan will also be looking to pick up direct free-kicks – it was his effort from distance which led to Kuyt’s hat-trick goal against United.
Gerrard’s setback comes at a time when new signing Andy Carroll is in line to make his full debut for the club, following his £35 million pound move from Newcastle. Carroll’s influence as a target man was seen briefly in his substitute appearance during last night’s game with Braga. Kenny Dalglish will be frustrated at the timing of these events – Liverpool are surely set to miss Gerrard’s delivery, which would be a perfect compliment to Carroll’s aerial dominance in the box.
Injuries to FPL midfield favourites are now mounting up, leaving Fantasy Managers searching for replacements. Gerrard joins an already overflowing list which includes Tim Cahill, Cesc Fabregas, Nani, Theo Walcott and Mikel Arteta amongst others. The likes of Kuyt, Samir Nasri and the Villa contingent of Ashley Young, Stewart Downing and Marc Albrighton are set to pick up further interest as a result, while Frank Lampard’s recent resurgence could well see renewed interest.
