Blow for Liverpool as Steven Gerrard Gets Ruled out Until September

After signing a host of new players, Liverpool were having the perfect preseason. But it would seem that all good things come to an end, as inspirational captain Steven Gerrard has been ruled out until September with a groin infection.

According to a report by the Guardian Gerrard will continue to receive treatment on his troubled groin well into the beginning of the season.

Liverpool have stated that, "He [Gerrard] is expected to remain in hospital for several days while the precautionary procedure is completed."

Gerrard missed the end of last season due to the injury, and it would seem that the No. 8 is looking at shaking off the injury once and for all.

Potentially Gerrard will only miss three matches, maybe four. As things stand he is expected to return against Stoke, but between then and now is the anticipated match against Arsenal—a crucial match in any circumstance. He will also miss England's international friendly with Holland and the Euro qualifiers against Bulgaria and Wales.

It is exciting times at Liverpool with the signings of Adam, Henderson, Downing and the return of Aquilani. With Gerrard out each player will have to step up, to provide a creative link between the midfield and forwards.

Reports would suggest that Gerrard is receiving the best possible treatment, as was confirmed by a statement made by the club, "The player will then return to Melwood to continue his rehabilitation programme and is expected to be available for selection in September."

From the neutral Premier League supporter perspective, it would be a great shame to see Gerrard to miss any more football. Hopefully, he gets back on the pitch as soon as possible.

How would you tweak the lineup to compensate for the absence of Gerrard?