Gerrard set to miss upcoming games

Steven Gerrard will miss Liverpool's Barclays Premier League game against Swansea City and England's friendlies against Spain and Sweden after undergoing treatment on an ankle infection.

The 31-year-old, who is now wearing a protective plaster cast following the treatment, missed Saturday's 2-0 win at West Brom due to the problem and is a fresh blow to the England midfielder who has only played a handful of games since a six-month lay-off with a groin problem.

A statement on the club's official website said: "Steven Gerrard has now undergone treatment to clear out all infection from his right ankle, which has been placed in a protective plaster cast. The player will not be available for this weekend's game against Swansea City or for the upcoming England friendlies against Spain and Sweden."

The statement continued: "Steven will now continue his rehabilitation programme under the guidance of the club's medical staff."

Gerrard made his first appearance following his injury from the bench in Liverpool's Carling Cup win over Brighton on September 21.

The Reds skipper has only made two Barclays Premier League starts since then, against Manchester United and Norwich.

England face Spain on November 12 and Sweden three days later, both games at Wembley.