Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been ruled out of Sunday's clash with Manchester City, the club announced on Friday.

Gerrard is still battling a hamstring injury suffered in the FA Cup against Everton two weeks ago and with the Champions League resuming next week, manager Rafael Benitez confirmed that the midfielder will not be risked.

"Steven will not be ready for this game," Benitez told the club's website. "We don't know if he'll be back for the game in midweek but clearly he will not be involved against City.

"He is improving but we cannot take any risks so he won't be in the squad."

Liverpool travel to face Real Madrid in the Champions League knock-out stages on Wednesday.