Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard steps up fitness regime

Liverpool coach Steve Clarke believes that Steven Gerrard needs to "push on" in order to regain his fitness for regular football.

The 31-year-old, who was ruled out for six months with a groin injury, has been used as a substitute for the Reds' last three matches, but has yet to play a full half for the Merseyside club.

"For Steven it's just a progression," Clarke told the club's official website. "He's coming back from a long-term injury and we'll try to treat him as cautiously and carefully as we can.

"Obviously there will be a time when he is going to have to push on - and I think this is the time now.

"He's going to have to push himself in the coming weeks - and the more minutes we get into him, the better."

This could pave the way for the England international to play a role in the Reds' clash with rivals Manchester United on October 15.