In LFC Magazine, the Liverpool manager said, “I think it’s beneficial for everybody that Stevie hasn’t been called up by England. He’s got back to where he is right now because of the people that have been working with him. He’s said himself that he has great faith in those people.
“I don’t think it would have been helpful for Stevie — or us or England — if he had gone away for the game against Montenegro. I think it’s a sensible decision for all concerned.”
Gerrard has only recently returned to action following a six-month injury layoff. He battled a persistent groin problem and had surgery in April to correct the issue. He played in Liverpool’s 3-1 win over Manchester United on March 6 and did not return to action until Sept. 21, in LFC’s 2-1 win over Brighton.
The half-year spell on the sidelines robbed Gerrard of match fitness. The club is determined not to rush him back to full-game action, as he played 16, 10 and 24 minutes in the three games in which he has appeared this season.
There are now calls for the midfielder’s restoration to the starting lineup ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Manchester United on Oct. 15 at Anfield.
Gerrard has 89 apearances and 19 goals for England. His last game for his country was in Nov. 2010 in England’s 2-1 loss against France at Wembley Stadium.
Photo courtesy of Flickr/liverpoolfc.ge
