Steven Gerrard: Liverpool's spirit saved Champions League blushes
STEVEN GERRARD today admitted Liverpool's last gasp extra time win over Standard Liege was too close for comfort - as the Reds skipper prepares to go under the knife to cure a troublesome groin injury.
Liverpool had Dirk Kuyt to thank for a winning goal deep into added time after the Belgian champions had proven a tough nut to crack in last night's Champions League qualifier.
Rafa Benitez's men now go into today's draw for the lucrative group stages but Gerrard - who played through the pain barrier last night and is expected to be out of action for between 10-15 days following surgery - admits he is relieved to have made it through.
He said: "I think you have to give them credit. They've come to Anfield and were very organised and they've stopped us playing.
"They are a big, physical side and they were difficult to break down.
"But as the game went on we started to move the ball quicker and there was a lot more tempo to our play.
"It was a bit too close for comfort but we're just pleased that we're through.
"I think there was a slight improvement on our previous games. Like I've said, the tempo was a bit better and we'll certainly take that positive.
"It was all about qualification tonight. We've done it the hard way but we're in the draw and that's the main thing.
"I think we showed good character. We know there will be times during the season when things aren't going to be rosy and we're not going to play great all the time.
"When this does happen it's all about sticking in there, working hard for each other and getting the result, and thankfully we've managed to do that tonight.
"It's also important to remember that we've still got players to come back that will make the squad stronger in the coming weeks and hopefully we will get a few more players in before the transfer window shuts.
"But when it comes down to it, if you'd asked me a couple of weeks ago if I'd be happy with two wins out of two in the league and making it through to the Champions League, I would obviously have taken it."
Gerrard praised keeper Pepe Reina for a couple of outstanding first half saves which stopped Standard from scoring what would have been a crucial away goal.
And he also told of his relief when Kuyt's close range volley gave Liverpool the win they so desperately needed.
"We expect that from Pepe because he is one of the best keepers in the world," he said.
"You can always rely on him if you're under the cosh and he's done well for us again tonight.
"The main feeling when the goal went in was relief because you don't want to go to penalties because it's a bit of a lottery, although you know you've always got a chance with Pepe.
"It was a great ball by Ryan and a great finish by Dirk and I think we were all delighted to see it go in."
Gerrard only featured in last night's game following a consultation with club doctor Mark Waller and Benitez, and the Liverpool captain will today undergo groin surgery in a bid to clear up a problem which has troubled him for the last fortnight.
He said: "I'm struggling with that at the moment but I hope to find out more in the next couple of days."
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