Stevie G to play through the pain

Steven Gerrard is ready to save manager Rafa Benitez’s job by playing through the pain. The Liverpool skipper has not completed a full 90 minutes since 4 October as he battles a niggling groin injury that may yet need surgery. But after having another painkilling injection on Tuesday, the midfielder is raring to get back on the field and help the Reds get their season back on track. "I'm just relieved the second injection seems to have done the trick," commented Gerrard. "I'm feeling a lot better now, looking forward to the weekend. The aim now is to make sure I get a good week's training under my belt so I'm ready for the game with Manchester City." Liverpool lie 11 points behind EPL leaders Chelsea and face an embarrassing Champions League exit after a run of only one win in nine games.