Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has said that he hopes to return from his long injury lay-off in time for his side's trip to White Hart Lane on Sunday, September 18.

The 31-year-old has been unavailable for the Reds since suffering a groin injury in March. Following surgery, the England international returned to hospital due to an infection that has ruled him out of the club's opening Premier League fixtures.

However, the Anfield favourite is now targeting his return to the field.

"I feel really good," he told the club's official website. "I'm back kicking balls again - it's all positive.

"I should be back in full training with the team on Thursday or Friday of next week.

"I won't be involved against Stoke next Saturday but my plan is to hopefully be involved in the game against Tottenham [on September 18]. It will be Kenny [Dalglish]'s decision when I come back in."

Liverpool are currently third in the Premier League table, having taken seven points from three games.