Post by Taxigirl on Feb 13, 2004 18:08:48 GMT
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has asked to be left out of the England squad for next week's friendly with Portugal with his partner set to give birth.
The influential midfielder was almost certain to be included in Sven Goran Eriksson's plans for the trip to Portugal next Wednesday, but the Swede will now have to do without Gerrard.
Gerrard's girlfriend is due to give birth to their first child and he does not want to be out of the country when she goes into labour.
The news is a blow for Eriksson, but may give him the chance to try others in midfield including Frank Lampard or even allow David Beckham to play in central midfield where he has been playing for Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier revealed this weekend's FA Cup tie with Portsmouth has come too early for Milan Baros.
The Czech star was hoping to make the squad for the game at Anfield on Sunday after two run-outs in the reserves following five months out with a broken ankle.
"Milan won't be involved at the weekend because he isn't ready. Don't forget he has been out for five months and that's longer than a close season.
"He overcame the first step last week when he played for an hour in the reserves and last night he overcame the next step by playing 90 minutes. He also scored a good goal in the game.
"But I still think he needs at least one more game before he can come back into the squad. He's not far away now but he just needs a little more time."
Chris Kirkland though is fit to take his place in the squad after tests showed the back injury which forced him off in the reserves' win over Aston Villa was not serious.
