17.10.2002 - Gerrard 'struggling' to be fit for Leeds

---

Steven Gerrard has admitted that it will be a struggle to get back to full fitness in time for Liverpool's clash with Leeds on Saturday after picking up a hip injury in England's draw with Macedonia last night.

"I'm in a bit of pain because I've had a nasty bang on my hip. I might struggle for the weekend," said Gerrard. He added "I'll try my best for Saturday but it may have to be a case of waiting for Tuesday instead."

However there was also some welcome team news ahead of the trip to Elland Road with the news that Vladimir Smicer could be back in the squad after missing over a month of first team action. Dietmar Hamann is also fit to play after he recovered from an ankle knock which kept him out of Germany's international friendly last Saturday.