Rafa Benitez was dreading the possible news that defender Martin Skrtel could be out for the season, but after having his knee examined today, it appears that Skrtel will not have to have surgery and could be back to help Liverpool by December!

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Liverpool have revealed defender Martin Skrtel does not need an operation on his right knee and should return to action by Christmas.

The Slovakian centre-back damaged his posterior cruciate ligament in Sunday’s 3-2 win at Manchester City and had a scan this afternoon.

Reds spokesman Ian Cotton said: “Martin was examined by a specialist today, who confirmed the player does not require surgery and is expected to be back playing by Christmas.”

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez will undoubtedly be buoyed by the news although he is confident the likes of Sami Hyypia and Daniel Agger can fill the breach adequately. (ESPNSoccernet)

The news just keeps getting better for Liverpool! After dreading the idea of not having Skrtel for the second half push; however, it now appears that Benitez will have all three of his central defenders at his disposal when the club will surely be going through the toughest part of the schedule that could include Champions League and Premier League matches in the same week.

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