Kenny Dalglish has spoken of his delight at seeing Steven Gerrard return to competitive action following six months out after requiring surgery on a troublesome groin injury.

The Liverpool captain played 16 minutes of the Carling Cup win at Brighton last night and Dalglish believes having Gerrard back in the fold could be huge for the team.

He said: “It was fantastic for everyone connected to the club to see Steven back.”

“We’re more pleased for Steven than anything else. He’s worked really hard and had a few disappointments along the way, so to get 20 minutes or so will give him a real lift.”

“Steven coming back certainly makes our squad a whole lot stronger. Having Steven back is like getting a new signing. For us it’s a real, real addition to the squad. To get your talisman back on the right road is, selfishly, great for us.”

Gerrard’s return is very timely of course. After a good start to the season, they have lost their last two Premier League games and will want to get back on track as soon as possible as they chase a place in the top four.

They shouldn’t expect too much too soon from Gerrard though, with Dalgish cautious about rushing him back into too much football after several months out.

Referring to the ongoing recovery process for the England man, the Reds boss said: “We will manage the situation as diligently, as we have done so far. We need to be careful and we won’t get carried away.”

As for the win at Brighton, this was thanks to goals in either half from Craig Bellamy – on his first appearances in his second spell at Liverpool – and Dirk Kuyt.

Brighton produced an improved performance as the game went on and pulled a goal back through Ashley Barnes, but the Premier League side held onto the win and will take their place in the fourth round draw of the Carling Cup.

This is a competition Liverpool would love to win of course. They have gone a significant period of time without silverware and Dalglish would relish winning a trophy during his first full season in charge.

Next up for the Anfield club is a home game with Wolves before a trip to local rivals Everton on the 1st October. It remains to be seen how involved Gerrard will be for these two matches as he eases himself back into action.