Gerrard - Suarez has been missed

The Uruguay international, who has not played since Boxing Day, is set to return from an eight-match ban on Monday when Tottenham visit Anfield.

While manager Kenny Dalglish would have much rather had one of his key players available for the busy month of January, the side have coped well in his absence.

The break could also have done Suarez good, having had little rest since last summer helping Uruguay win the Copa America, and Gerrard thinks his team-mate will be a major boost.

Welcome back

Without their influential No.7, Liverpool have already booked a place in the Carling Cup final and knocked Manchester United out of the FA Cup.

They are also involved in the battle for a place in the top four of the Premier League and Gerrard thinks Suarez will be a welcome addition to meeting the challenge.

"He has been missed and the players are looking forward to welcoming him back," said Gerrard, whose own injury problems over the last 12 months have meant he, Suarez and Andy Carroll have yet to all start a match together.

"Luis can help us achieve what we set out to achieve - finishing top four and reaching two finals.

"I'm sure he will, because he's a super player. Luis has shown over the last 12 months that he's one of the best players in the world so we want these players available."