Injury blow as Skrtel is ruled out for 2 months

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel has been ruled out for 8 weeks following the metatarsal injury he sustained in last week’s Europa League match against Unirea.

While the Slovakian centre back will not require surgery on the broken toe he will miss a key part of the season just as he was beginning to show signs of improved form.

Skrtel’s absence on Sunday, coupled with Sotirios Kyrgiakos’ suspension, meant a return to centre back for Jamie Carragher alongside Daniel Agger.

Agger himself suffered ‘severe bruising’ against Blackburn (didn’t we all) meaning he will remain at Melwood this week for treatment rather than meet up for international duty. He hopes to be available for Monday’s trip to Wigan.

The good news for Rafa Benitez is that Kyrgiakos will be available again against the Latics having served his three match ban for his dismissal against Everton.

Glen Johnson should provide a welcome boost on the defensive front after returning to training after 2 months out.

Skrtel will crucially miss both legs of the Europa League last 16 tie with Lille and the trip to Man United.