Rafa gives injury update

Rafael Benitez today confirmed Javier Mascherano has resumed training at Melwood - but the boss expects to be without Glen Johnson for at least another month.

Mascherano suffered a medial ligament strain to his left knee against Portsmouth in December, but the Argentina captain is now back in training with his teammates.

And Benitez has revealed his squad is close to boasting a clean bill of health, with Albert Riera also nearing a first-team return following injury.

"Riera and Mascherano are training, and that is good. More or less the majority of the team are available," the boss told reporters at Melwood.

Meanwhile, Benitez admitted he is pleased with the progress made by Johnson as the defender continues his recovery from a tear sustained to the medial ligament in his right knee during the recent 1-0 victory over Aston Villa.

The injury forced the 25-year-old out of the FA Cup tie with Reading and the manager expects to be without his services for at least a further month, while Nabil El Zhar remains on the treatment table as he recovers from a twisted ankle.

"Glen is doing well but it's too early," said Benitez. "It's a question of one month, maybe a little bit more.

"He will carry on resting and improving."