Steve Gerrard Returns to Light Practice, But Time Frame for Return to LFC Lineup Is Uncertain

Steve Gerrard is up and running at Liverpool FC's practice facility after overcoming an ankle infection. The Liverpool Echo reports the Reds' captain has begun training on his own, but no date has been set for his return to the starting lineup.

"It's all part of Steven's natural progression," Kenny Dalglish said. "We've been delighted with his progress and that’s continuing.

"But we have never put a time frame on when he will be back playing and we won't now."

Gerrard has been out of action since Oct. 29. He suffered a cut on his ankle, which swelled and infected soon after. The 31-year-old midfielder underwent a surgical procedure to drain and clear the infected area and has missed Liverpool's last six games.

The skipper was photographed Friday at Melwood going through a series of excercises with Liverpool's head of fitness and conditioning Darren Burgess. The next step in Gerrard's progression would be to join his teammates in full training. That could happen as early as this week.

It's uncertain when Gerrard will return to the Liverpool lineup, but the news is a welcome boost to his LFC teammates and manager. The Reds play five English Premier League games in the next three weeks, starting with Sunday's trip to Aston Villa.

Photo via Flickr/liverpoolfc.ge