Man Utd have opened up a five point gap at the top of the table, and with a home game against Blackburn on Saturday things are looking rosey for the Red Devils.

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard will not make his return to action against Manchester City this weekend.

Optimistic noises coming out of Anfield earlier this week indicated that Gerrard could make a surprise return from his hamstring injury for Sunday’s clash with City.

However, Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has confirmed Gerrard will not be risked and he is unsure if the midfield dynamo will be fit in time to face Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League next week.

“Steven will not be ready for this game,” Benitez told the club’s official website.

“We don’t know if he’ll be back for the game in midweek but clearly he will not be involved against City.

“He is improving but we cannot take any risks so he won’t be in the squad.”

Man Utd have opened up a five point gap at the top of the table, and with a home game against Blackburn on Saturday things are looking rosey for the Red Devils.

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