Adam Lallana set for imminent return as Liverpool's injury problems show signs of recovery

Liverpool have received a massive injury boost in the form of Adam Lallana who has completed rehabilitation and is set to make his first team return against Aston Villa this weekend.

The Reds have got their act together over the past few games and are edging closer towards the coveted top four spot, which currently eludes them by five points.

Lallana, who was injured in Liverpool's 2-2 draw against Leicester City on New Year's Day, will add some much needed dynamism to a side strangled by the absence of Daniel Sturridge's pace and dexterity up front.

The former Chelsea striker completed rehabilitation in the United States for his thigh injury and is back training with the Reds with Rodgers looking to ease him into the side.

The news comes at just the right moment for the Reds, who face Chelsea in the first leg of the Capital One Cup on Tuesday.

Rodgers is desperate to win a trophy this season, with Steven Gerrard set to wave goodbye to the Anfield faithful after announcing his transfer to LA Galaxy after the end of the season.

"We are monitoring Adam," said Rodgers.

"He is ahead of schedule in terms of his rehab and we are hoping he can train tomorrow.

"If he's not available for the weekend certainly against Chelsea he will be," he added.

Meanwhile, Glen Johnson, who picked up a groin injury against Manchester United last month is also close to full fitness while Joe Allen is recovering fast. It is an important period for anyone associated with Liverpool given the stakes at hand, and something which can make or break Rodgers' career at Anfield.

"Glen Johnson is back in training and we'll see how he is after the session tomorrow, he hasn't been training long," said Rodgers.

"Joe Allen should be back training in the next couple of days, but Jon Flanagan is still a wee bit of time away," he concluded.