Englilsh Premier League: Gerrard takes flight to roll back the years

The skipper was influential in his side’s 3-1 win over Leicester

LEICESTER: Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard marked his return to the side by scoring the winner as Brendan Rodgers's side came from behind to win 3-1 away to Premier League strugglers Leicester City on Tuesday.

Gerrard's goal came just a day after Liverpool manager Rodgers confirmed the former England captain, whose form has been called into question, had been offered a new contract with the Merseysiders.

Simon Mignolet's own-goal gave bottom-club Leicester the lead but Adam Lallana quickly restored parity before Gerrard put the visitors in front.

Leicester defender Wes Morgan was then sent off at the King Power Stadium before Jordan Henderson sealed a morale-boosting victory for Liverpool late on.

Gerrard returned as one of three changes made by Rodgers after being left out against Stoke and the under-fire manager was quick to praise his skipper’s performance. “I think you see the energy of his legs and influence, it was an outstanding performance and a good goal," said Rodgers. "He looked fresh; he dropped back into midfield but has a natural instinct to get forward. He arrives in the spot you want for that good finish.”

United scrape past Stoke

Manchester United’s 2-1 win at home against Stoke gave them their fourth consecutive win and strengthened their grip on fourth.

Juan Mata scored the winner in the second half after Marouane Fellaini headed goal was cancelled out by Steven Nzonzi. However, United coach Louis van Gaal was not happy with his side as they yet again required goalkeeper David de Gea to bail them out at the end but added that the result pleases him.  “The last few moments were not necessary, but it is always like that,” he said. “We have struggled until the end in the Premier League. It is common. I'm happy with the result.”

West Ham continue unlikely CL bid

A 2-1 win over West Brom kept West Ham just a point behind fourth place United as they came from behind thanks to goals by Kevin Nolan and James Tomkins.

 

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