Benitez could decide to take Gerrard out of the limelight for Saturday’s third round visit to Deepdale, although the skipper was already under consideration to be rested in any case.

The Professional Footballers’ Association have also offered their help to Gerrard.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor said: “We have a watching brief on this and have offered any help we can.

“I was concerned when I heard about the case as I have known Steven Gerrard a long time.

“I don’t know the full details but as the players’ union we would want to be supportive of him.”

Meanwhile, Albert Riera has warned Liverpool’s title rivals that the Anfield outfit will only improve with the return of Fernando Torres.

Torres missed the whole of December with another hamstring problem but is close to making a long-awaited comeback.

And compatriot Riera said: “All wingers, in fact all players, would want to play with Fernando because he is such a good player.

“He’s so important for our team – scoring 33 goals last season. It’s not easy to score that many goals at this level.

“It will be great news for us when he’s fit again and I’m sure we’ll play a lot of times together and form a good understanding.”