The news comes as a blow to England Head Coach Sven-Goran Eriksson as he prepares for the World Cup qualifiers against Wales and Azerbaijan next month.

The Liverpool captain limped off just before half-time during his side's defeat at Manchester United last night and news of the fracture to his fifth metatarsal in his left foot means that the 24-year-old now faces up to two months out of action.

Gerrard is naturally hoping that the injury will not keep him out too long and said he was unsure how exactly he picked up the knock.

"I'll be devastated if I've broken it," said Gerrard after the match.

"I took a pass from Xabi Alonso and just caught my foot in the turf, I don't know what happened really but I was all on my own.

"It will be disappointing if it is a break but we will know more after the X-ray.

"I will try to remain positive whatever happens. It will be devastating if I am out for too long."

There was, though, better news for Sven from Sir Alex Ferguson who believes that Wayne Rooney could be fit for the England matches.

The 18-year-old is nearing full recovery from an ankle injury sustained during England's Euro 2004 quarter-final with Portugal.

Ferguson said: "Wayne has been doing a lot of training but so far, because of medical advice, there has been no contact work.

"Now he is about to have what we are hoping will be his final medical and if he comes through that, if he is selected for the England squad that will be fine.

Sven may also have an embarrassment of riches in the centre of defence. Rio Ferdinand made his long-awaited comeback last night and Arsenal defender Sol Campbell also played for the first time this season.

The England defender played a full match for the Arsenal reserves as they beat Coventry 4-0.

Campbell, who along with Rooney was named in the UEFA Euro 2004 All Star squad, has been recovering from an Achilles tendon injury.

Wenger has said that he will not be pushed in to rushing Campbell's return to the first team but the news of his return can only be postive news for Sven.