STEVEN GERRARD revealed last night he is on course to help resurrect Liverpool's Champions League campaign.

The England star feared he would be ruled out until the New Year with the curse of the broken metatarsal, which also hit fellow internationals David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, Gary Neville and Danny Murphy.

But after a successful operation two weeks ago, Gerrard is already able to walk in comfort, and has been given the green light to resume playing within the next month.

That means, if there is no reaction, then the influential midfielder could even be in line for a return to the side for the trip to Monaco on November 23.

And it seems very likely that Gerrard will be back for the final group game, the visit of Olympiakos.

It comes as a massive boost to boss Rafael Benitez, who is still stunned by the disappointing draw with Deportivo La Coruna in midweek.

That stalemate means Liverpool will almost certainly have to win on their travels in Europe, if they are to progress into the next phase of the Champions League, and the return of Gerrard for the visit to Monaco would be perfect.

Benitez was confident yesterday that his skipper could even be back within the next three weeks. He said: "Steven is doing very well, it should be that he is back within three weeks, and we are looking forward to it."

Gerrard, though, was more cautious.

"I had the operation two weeks ago, and the doctor said it went well, and it should be six weeks from then. So I am hoping it's only a month more,'' he said.

"I'm feeling good and can't wait to be back.''

Gerrard's return by the end of November would also see him available for some massive club games, with Arsenal due to visit on the 28th, and then Liverpool going to Everton at the start of December.

"I hate watching. I kick every ball, and I am desperate to get back,'' said Gerrard.

Benitez also revealed yesterday that he is hoping to have new signing Antonio Nunez finally back and in training within the next three weeks.

The former Real Madrid midfielder injured his knee before even kicking a ball for his new club.

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