Injured Gerrard handed another long lay-off

Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard will miss at least three weeks after scans revealed damage to his groin muscle.

The England player was carried off in the 71st minute of the Champions League draw with Galatasaray at Anfield two days ago and misses the return leg with Gala in Istanbul next week.

Gerrard also misses the Merseyside derby with Everton this weekend and Premiership matches against Fulham and Newcastle with a long-lay off possible.

The player was hurt as he overstretched to reach thee ball in the 0-0 draw and has a history of groin and other injury problems.

Liverpool caretaker manager Phil Thompson said today:

"He has had a scan and we now do not expect him back for as long as three weeks.

"Because of the sort of injuries Steven has had in the past we have to be very careful with him and not take any risks."