Steven Gerrard's comeback continues as captain is due to start for Liverpool against Manchester United

Gerrard, who missed the start of the season because of a groin injury, has been gradually stepping up his comeback for the last month.

After three consecutive substitute appearances, the most recent being a 30-minute cameo in the Merseyside derby, the 31 year-old now has the all clear to play a full 90 minutes when called upon.

Manager Kenny Dalglish has preached caution with his captain ever since his return to training, easing the England midfielder back into competitive action.

But the temptation to thrust him into battle against the champions is likely to be too much to resist.

Gerrard’s return will provide Dalglish with an array of midfield options for the first time since his summer rebuilding at Anfield.

The versatility of Gerrard will increase the pressure on the recent signings who have filled the void in his absence, with Charlie Adam the most vulnerable if the captain resumes in his more favoured central midfield role.

Liverpool have also welcomed Glen Johnson back to full training, but the Manchester United visit will be too soon for the England defender to make an immediate return.

Dalglish has an injury concern over youngster Martin Kelly, who pulled out of England Under 21 duty ahead of last night’s fixture with Norway with a groin problem, but Johnson is more likely to make his Premier League comeback against Norwich on Oct 22.

Andre Marriner, a referee once dubbed “inexperienced” by Sir Alex Ferguson, will take charge of Saturday’s game.

Marriner incurred the wrath of Ferguson when he last refereed a meeting between the clubs at Anfield in 2009.

The 40-year-old dismissed Nemanja Vidic and Javier Mascherano as Liverpool enjoyed a 2-0 win, but was lambasted by Ferguson for not sending off Jamie Carragher for a foul on Michael Owen when the score was 1-0.