Skrtel fit

Last updated : 13 August 2009 By Al Campbell

The Slovakian defender has been out since picking up a hamstring injury in last month's pre-season friendly against Thailand. However, he has given Rafael Benitez a boost by returning to fitness in time for the first league game of the season on Sunday.

Skrtel played in a friendly against Oldham at the Academy yesterday, which the Reds won 2-0 thanks to goals from Lucas Levia and Daniel Ayala, and came through the game without any problems.