Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard admits that the absence of Jordan Henderson for this weekend's mouth-watering clash with top four rivals Arsenal is a 'big loss' for Jurgen Klopp's side.
The Reds' captain, who also missed last Monday's defeat to Leicester, has been ruled out of the clash at Anfield with a foot problem.
Whilst scans have revealed the injury is not as serious as first feared, heavy bruising means that Henderson will be unable to take to the field on Saturday.
Steven Gerrard admits Jordan Henderson is a "big loss" as Liverpool skipper misses Arsenal showdown https://t.co/ljRW7OVobT pic.twitter.com/1mXwvEgHxm
Having been an integral part of Klopp's plans for much of the season, the midfielder's recent injury problems have been linked to Liverpool's dip in form since the turn of the year, where they have won just once in seven league matches.
And as the team now prepare to face fourth-placed Arsenal this weekend, Gerrard has admitted that Henderson will be sorely missed by his teammates.
"He is massively important," the 36-year-old said of Henderson (as quoted by theMirror).
"He has become a big leader in the dressing room and out on the pitch - the way he plays and vocally.
"He has really grown into that captaincy.People on the outside don't realise he puts in 12-12.5km every game and that is full on energy.
"He helps Liverpool with their pressing style, winning the ball back and his passing this season has been very good.
Jurgen Klopp confirms that Jordan Henderson will not be fit for Liverpool's game against Arsenal on Saturday. pic.twitter.com/ZTf4amRRrt
"When you take him out, he is a big loss."
Victory over Arsenal would lift the Reds back into the top four andundoubtedlyease the pressure on the players, who have beentoldby their manager that they are all playing for their futures following their recentslump in form.