Steven Gerrard

[Fredo]

Has it been confirmed that he's out for 6 weeks or is it still speculation at this stage?

[marcus50bucks]

Has it been confirmed that he's out for 6 weeks or is it still speculation at this stage?

It speculation as things stand mate. Chris Bascombe said that early indications from the tests Gerrard had were not promising and that he could be out for at least a month.

[Mostar]

It looks very likely he'll miss all 4 games in December but it is what it is.

[BG1973]

We would've beaten them without him. Now he's injured and could be out for a month, right before our most important run of fixtures. There was no justification for playing him, not even a decent set piece delivery! I'd sure rather have him fit for this run of games than just for West Ham at home.

Absolutely no guarantee we would have beaten west ham without Gerrard.

And it's that complacent attitude that has cost us over the years.

Squad depth will be the deciding factor this season. All the top 5 have strong first eleven, unfortunately we're one of 3 teams that are quite weak 12-17.

We don't have the luxury of being able to rest top players. Even at home against west ham.

[Rigadon]

With Gerrard injured and Agger injured/dropped, I guess it'll be Lucas or Johnson as captain.

[Sarb]

I strongly disagree with resting Gerrard for West Ham. We have been saying all season that midfield is our weak link yet we think we'd win by taking out our best midfielder? No chance

[Rigadon]

I strongly disagree with resting Gerrard for West Ham. We have been saying all season that midfield is our weak link yet we think we'd win by taking out our best midfielder? No chance

Gerrard needs to be managed in terms of game time. A young, fit Gerrard would be undroppable (not sure if that's a word) but a 33 year old Gerrard (who, on times this season, has looked very tired) needs to be rested for some games. Also, a midfield of Allen, Lucas and Henderson should be good enough against most teams.

With regards to our midfield looking weak - unfortunately, Gerrard's been part of the problem (probably because he's knackered )

[BG1973]

Also, a midfield of Allen, Lucas and Henderson should be good enough against most teams

Just spat my tea out...

[marcus50bucks]

Confirmed by the echo that he is out for up to six weeks

[Shaggy]

Massive blow. FFS.

[marcus50bucks]

I want to be optimistic but with Sturridge and now Gerrard out for quite a bit of time I really think we'll struggle especially in the upcoming away games. Gerrard is still a vital player for us even if he's clearly not the player he was.

[Rigadon]

Just spat my tea out...

When I say most teams…

[Lee]

Confirmed by the echo that he is out for up to six weeks

****.

That leaves us light in the middle. Very light.

[Rigadon]

I want to be optimistic but with Sturridge and now Gerrard out for quite a bit of time I really think we'll struggle especially in the upcoming away games. Gerrard is still a vital player for us even if he's clearly not the player he was.

I also think Enrique is a big loss.

We were always going to struggle - Spurs, City and Chelsea away - I'd have taken two points without the injuries!!

[Mostar]

Confirmed by the echo that he is out for up to six weeks

As it was originally thought.

Definitely a blow but it is good opportunity for Allen and Alberto to step up.