MARTIN SKRTEL has refused to rule out the possibility of being involved in Liverpool’s Christmas programme next week.

The defender sustained cruciate ligament damage in the 3-2 win at Manchester City in early October and was initially set to be sidelined until the end of the year.

But Skrtel, who is back in full training after making good progress with his recovery, reckons a return to the squad for the Boxing Day clash with Bolton or trip to Newcastle United two days later is still in his sights.

“There is no date set for my comeback but I would be very glad to make it in this year,” said Skrtel.

“So far I have been through only two training sessions. We will see how I am doing after one or two weeks of training, then we can speak about my return.

“The knee is alright but I don’t have the fitness I had before I got injured. My strength has been good but speed and acceleration has been worse after almost three months of rehabilitation. That will return with time.

“A three-month break is rather long and I must try hard now to get back to action as soon as possible.”

The Slovakian will definitely still be out when Liverpool go to the Emirates on Sunday, looking for their first win at the stadium.

They were beaten 3-0 by Arsenal on their first visit two years ago but last season secured two 1-1 draws in a week – the first of which was the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final victory in April.

But it’s that elusive victory that goalkeeper Pepe Reina is looking for this weekend, which will increase Liverpool’s lead at the top to four points over Chelsea, who have to wait until Monday to go to Everton.

“We don’t have that many great memories from our other visits to the Emirates,” Reina admitted.

“They have played very well, and we haven’t been in our best moment.

“This time I think it is different, because we are top of the table and I think it is easier to play when you are up there. We’ve never won there before, so maybe it’s the right time to do it.

“It is possible for us to win on any ground. But we have to respect them a lot and play to win, like we always do.

“We have already won at Stamford Bridge, which we’d not done, so we’re confident we can now go to the Emirates and win there too.”

While Liverpool have performed impressively against the league’s other Champions League sides this season, Arsenal have also beaten Manchester United and Chelsea.

The Gunners, however, have left themselves with much to do in the title race, suffering five defeats including losses to Stoke, Hull and Fulham.

“They probably do save their best for the big teams,” added Reina.

“The way they play their football probably makes it easier for them to take on the top sides, because they allow them to play their brand of football.

“Against more physical teams, they have struggled a little bit because of that.

“Arsenal have great players and a good squad. They are able to do great things. They beat Manchester United at home and also won at Stamford Bridge, so we know it will be a really tough game.”