Brendan Rodgers: 'Steven Gerrard ready for FA Cup semi-final'

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has admitted that he is happy to have midfielder Steven Gerrard available for the club's FA Cup semi-final with Aston Villa.

Gerrard has sat out the last three matches through suspension, but Rodgers, who is attempting to reach his first final as Liverpool boss, has backed his captain to make an impact should he feature at Wembley Stadium.

The 42-year-old told reporters: "Steven is definitely ready, we had a game here on Monday that he played in. He a special footballer.

"Steven has produced big moments in big games. The most important thing is having him back."

Gerrard has scored 10 goals in 35 appearances in all competitions during the current campaign.