Gerrard gives Reds timely boost

13 April 2012

Delighted Gerard Houllier claimed Steven Gerrard's return was a major "bonus" for Liverpool's congested pre-season.  

But after the midfield star had played the second half of Liverpool's 3-0 win at Wolves, Houllier insisted that he was unlikely to use the England starlet for all of Wednesday's Champions League third-round qualifier in Finland.

Houllier said: "Having Steve back was a real bonus for us, I was pleased with him.

"But he will not play the full game against Haka on Wednesday. You can't expect too much from him at the moment.

"That was the first game he's played since last season and the only 45 minutes he has had since getting injured at our training camp."

Houllier admitted, though, that he was pleased with both the level of fitness and the quality of their finishing as his team approach their crucial Champions League showdown.

Excellent goals from Sami Hyypia, Dietmar Hamann and a cracker from Robbie Fowler ensured a convincing victory.

Houllier said: "Our finishing was very pleasing and there were several aspects of the game that were very good. The real boost is that all our three strikers are fit for a period when we have so many games."

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