Rafa handed defensive boost

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has been handed a boost after revealing Martin Skrtel and Fabio Aurelio should return early next month.

The defensive duo have both been sidelined since late February and were not expected to return until late April at the earliest.

Left-back Aurelio strained his right thigh in Liverpool's 2-1 win over Blackburn on 28th February, leaving Benitez light on that flank.

Skrtel suffered a broken metatarsal just three days earlier against Unirea Urziceni in the Europa League, prompting a run in the side for Daniel Agger.

Benitez will welcome their premature return to fitness, as he prepares his side for the run-in.

"Both are still injured and will need some time, but it's only a question of a couple of weeks. It depends for each one," said Benitez of Skrtel and Aurelio.

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