Liverpool Need Steven Gerrard To Perform Immediately

Liverpool finally has their skipper back in their side, but they need more than just his presence.

Steven Gerrard is an Anfield lifer, and the most important player in the squad. His absence was easily noticeable over the last several months and they couldn't be happier with him back on the pitch.

But in his three games back in uniform he's only played 56 minutes.

Liverpool has been extremely cautious with his return, and rightfully so, but the time has come to take the training wheels off.

Liverpool first-team coach Steven Clarke agrees and believes that with Gerrard left out of England's 2012 Euro qualifier against Montenegro, Gerrard has ample time to get things together and start playing regular minutes.

Clarke was quoted on the team's website (via Mirror Football) saying:

"

For Steven it's just a progression. He's coming back from a long-term injury and we'll try to treat him as cautiously and carefully as we can ... Obviously there will be a time when he is going to have to push on - and I think this is the time now ... He's going to have to push himself in the coming weeks - and the more minutes we get into him, the better.

"

Gerrard will be back in Fabio Capello's side before long, but the Anfield giants need to get him more regular time on the pitch first.

Upon the closing of this two-week international break, the Reds will host league-leading Manchester United on October 15.

United has been a dominant force for much of the Premier League campaign so far, and Liverpool will be tested mightily just draw with them.

Gerrard's presence as a starter will go a long way to helping this team. Kenny Dalglish's side only trail the leaders by six points.

More than points and wins though, Gerrard needs to play good football and make himself known on the pitch.

If he can get going the Reds will be much better off in their chase of a top-four spot in the league.