Kenny Dalglish believes Steven Gerrard is looking stronger and fitter than he has for years after returning from injury against Blackburn.
Liverpool manager hails midfielder's fitness
Kenny Dalglish believes Steven Gerrard is looking stronger and fitter than he has for years after returning from injury in Liverpool's Boxing Day draw with Blackburn.
The England midfielder made his first appearance since October when he came on as a second-half substitute, having been sidelined for the past couple of months with an ankle infection.
He also had groin surgery in March and has barely featured for the Reds this season, so Dalglish was delighted to see him back in action.
Gerrard's return could not prevent Liverpool from being held 1-1 and Dalglish recognises that it will take him some time to regain top form, but the manager says he is in peak condition.
Fantastic start
"It is fantastic that he has got back and he looks a lot stronger now and is a lot fitter now than he was in years gone by," said the Scot, who will now prepare his Liverpool side for Friday's home game against Newcastle.
"But obviously he needs time on the pitch and we have to try to accommodate that.
"With his first touch he created a chance for Maxi Rodriguez with a header and he knocked it wide - that would have been a fantastic start.
"It is great to see him back fit and well and available for consideration again."
