The Reds skipper has been absent since injuring a hamstring on 17th November in England's friendly defeat to France. The match against Fulham was earmarked as a likely date for his return and that remains the case, although Hodgson will insist he gets some training under his belt beforehand.

"Steven's on track for the weekend," Hodgson said. "He's worked very hard to get back and Steven and Jamie Carragher are the type who hate not playing. Steven has been determined to get back as quickly as possible and the physios are happy with him and he feels quite good."

Hodgson is adamant he won't take any risks with his star man, however.