Former Liverpool manager Roy Evans believes that the Reds can survive without skipper Steven Gerrard.

The England international is expected to be hit with another injury setback after suffering an infection in his ankle.

Despite the blow, Evans believes that Kenny Dalglish has enough strength in depth in the squad to carry on without the 31-year-old.

"Liverpool did okay without him but you always want a Steven Gerrard in your team, he's such a fantastic player," Evans told talkSPORT.

"Hopefully the infection won't keep him out for too long. Liverpool have coped pretty well [with Gerrard's absence], they've brought in players in pre-season and they are all starting to develop and are getting that little bit better.

"There's room for improvement, which is a good thing, but at least they have players now that can pick up the mantle in midfield."

Gerrard only returned to action last month after being sidelined for six months with a groin problem.