Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard vows to return from injury the fittest he has been for a decade

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Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard believes he will return to action next season in the best condition he has been in for a decade.

The 31-year-old has been out of action for both club and country since March due to a groin injury and is hopeful to return to action in time for the beginning of pre-season training having undergone surgery.

Speaking to The Daily Express, Gerrard said: “I have confidence in what I can do.

“I am going to be in the best condition physically going into this season that I have been for the last 10 years.

“I am working doubly hard on my body, on my core and on strengthening my groin, which I have suffered with.

“The operation went well and I have nearly double the strength in the groin now than before.

“The physios at Liverpool are measuring that on a weekly basis and the results show that.

“I know I will be rusty in friendlies but I have confidence that I am going to be the freshest I have been, both mentally and physically, for a long, long time.”

The England international has embarked on a strenuous rehabilitation programme, something he insists he does not see as a ‘chore’, but instead a key factor in his return to first-team football.

“For two or three hours each day I will have to work on my body to make sure I am right,” he added.

“But I don’t see that as a chore – this is me getting right for Liverpool Football Club.

“I have started doing yoga a couple of times a week as well. It absolutely wipes you out.

“People who think you turn up and you’re just posing in different shapes should have a go!

“I am enjoying it after the sessions because I am feeling the benefits. That is part of the reason why my groin feels so good just now.

“I’ve not kicked a ball for a long time, probably the longest I have gone in my career, and I can’t wait to get back now.”