Gerrard, though, is expected to be available for Wednesday’s Champions League group game at home to Marseille.

“He’s working with the physios and is recovering well,” said Benitez. “I have the feeling he’ll be okay for Wednesday.”

With Gerrard injured, Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano are likely to be paired in central midfield this afternoon with Robbie Keane partnering Fernando Torres in attack.

Torres will make his first Premier League start in seven weeks after coming through unscathed from Spain’s friendly with Chile in midweek.

The striker, who suffered a hamstring injury during the previous international break in October, played the second half and scored in a 3-0 win.

And Benitez said: “We were in contact with Spain, and I think there were no problems. He didn't start, which was an important thing as he hasn't played much for us. He has come back okay.”

Of his own contract situation, Benitez remains confident a new deal can be agreed before the end of the month.

“The owners are still in contact with my agent,” he added. “They have had a contact and are still in contact. We are waiting for more new. They were talking and they will talk again. Hopefully they will speak next week. Maybe I’ll have more information next week.

“I’ve said before that I want to leave them all to the job and allow me to concentrate on football. I prefer to talk about football as I don’t want to lose the concentration.”