LIVERPOOL will allow Milan Jovanovic to leave in the New Year – with Germany the likely destination for the Serbia international.

Jovanovic only arrived at Liverpool in the summer on a free transfer from Belgian side Standard Liege having agreed a deal with former Anfield manager Rafael Benitez earlier in the year.

But the 29-year-old has grown frustrated at his lack of top-flight opportunities under Hodgson, and last month indicated he would review his situation in January.

While a regular in the Europa League campaign, the Serb forward and has made only four Premier League starts, the last of which came at Birmingham City in September.

And it appears likely Jovanovic, who has scored just twice this season, will depart when the transfer window reopens next month, with Liverpool willing to entertain offers in the region of £3million.

The news will alert a number of clubs including Bundesliga duo Cologne and Hamburg, who are both known admirers of the player.

Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard is almost certain to make his return to action for Liverpool in their Boxing Day visit to Blackpool – weather permitting.

The skipper has been absent for more than a month after damaging his hamstring while on international duty for England, and was rated “touch and go” to be available for Saturday's visit of Fulham.

However, the postponement of the fixture due to the big freeze that has gripped Merseyside in recent days has given Gerrard extra time to recover from the damage.