Relief for Liverpool as doctors say: Martin Skrtel does not require surgery

Oct 8 2008 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post

Liverpool FC's new signing Martin Skrtel _180

LIVERPOOL have been handed a major injury boost with the news Martin Skrtel does not require surgery – and could be back in action before Christmas.

The Slovakia international visited a specialist yesterday to assess the posterior cruciate ligament damage to his right knee suffered during the latter stages of Sunday’s 3-2 win at Manchester City.

And it was determined the centre-back does not need an operation to repair the damage and is expected to return to first-team contention by the end of the year after a period of extensive rehabilitation.

Skrtel required oxygen before leaving the Eastlands pitch on a stretcher, but left the stadium without the aid of crutches.

His absence has paved the way for Daniel Agger to return to the first team, particularly in the Champions League where Sami Hyypia was omitted from the 25-man squad.

Skrtel’s fine form this season had ensured he was preferred to Agger as partner to Jamie Carragher at the heart of Liverpool’s defence.

And Anfield manager Rafael Benitez said: “Everyone can see that the understanding between Martin and Carra is becoming really good.

“To lose a player who is doing well is always a problem. It’s bad news, but we have other options.