Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is confident that the knee injury will not affect Martin Skrtel in any way when the defender makes his return by Christmas time.

The Slovakia international has forged a solid central defensive partnership with experienced Jamie Carragher, but has been put out of action with damaged posterior ligament in his right knee during Reds’ 3-2 win at Manchester City on Sunday.

On first indications there were fears that the 23-year-old, who joined the Anfield side from Zenit St Petersburg in January, could have missed the remainder of the season, but the injury was not as serious as first feared.

“It is a big loss for us because Martin has done very well for us since joining from Zenit St Petersburg,” said Benitez in the Liverpool Echo.

“He was playing very well and we were very pleased with him so it is a real pity that he has got injured now.

“But we also know that it could have been worse and the fact that he could be back for our games towards the end of the year is positive for us.

“Martin has a very strong character and he trains hard so I am sure that when he does come back he will be the same player as before he got injured.”