Liverpool FC News: Steven Gerrard's Return Doesn't Mask Reds' Weaknesses

Steven Gerrard is back in his Liverpool shirt for the first time in six months.

The 31-year-old captain at Anfield has been sorely missed by the Reds and it is great to see him back on the pitch.

That being said, his return doesn't alleviate all the problems the side have had so far this season.

Liverpool is into the last 16 of the Carling Cup, but they didn't get there easily.

Unlike many of their rivals, the Carling Cup and Premier League is the only thing the Reds are competing in right now. While Manchester United, City and Chelsea also compete in the UEFA Champions League, the Reds are simply gunning for their eighth League Cup win. Their seven Carling Cups are the most in England.

But the way they're playing defense will make that chase very difficult.

Gerrard's return, when back to full-speed and in the starting lineup, will help open everything up top. His midfield direction, passing and precision shooting will keep everyone very active and the Reds have more than enough talent to score goals.

Their biggest problem is defending. They are still without Glen Johnson and this has proved to be a serious issue for the back line.

Liverpool is 2-1-2 in Premier League play this season and have a minus-one goal differential. That needs to change immediately if they want to make a push back up the table.

Scoring goals will come easier with Gerrard back in the side, but they need to find a way to keep opponents out of their own net.

Boss Kenny Dalglish knows this and also knows not to expect too much from his captain too soon. The Scottish manager said: "We're not going to throw him in and give him too many minutes. It's fantastic to see him back so don't let's spoil it by being irresponsible."

They need to get things together quickly, though. In addition to the next round of the Carling Cup, they have a match with Manchester United on October 15.

If the Reds don't figure out their defensive woes by that match, things could get ugly.