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SKRTEL COULD BE BACK FOR CHRISTMAS
Liverpool have been buoyed by news Martin Skrtel does not need surgery on his right knee and could be back on the pitch by Christmas.
The centre-back, who suffered posterior cruciate ligament damage in the latter stages of our 3-2 victory at Eastlands on Sunday, had a scan on Tuesday afternoon.
Club spokesman Ian Cotton said: "Martin was examined by a specialist today, who confirmed the player does not require surgery and is expected to be back playing by Christmas."
Earlier in the day, boss Rafa Benitez admitted the loss of Skrtel was a blow, but claimed the presence of Sami Hyypia and Daniel Agger provided a silver lining.
"Everyone can see that the understanding between Martin and Carra is becoming really good," Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv. "To lose a player who is doing well is always a problem. It's bad news, but we have other options.
"Martin has learned a lot. He already had good qualities and potential when we decided to bring him here. We had a lot of confidence in him but you can always improve, especially playing alongside experienced players and working under the staff here. He has done that.
"He has given me a selection headache this season but that is a good problem for me as a manager."












