Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has welcomed back Luis Suarez after the striker's eight-match ban for alleged racism.

The Uruguayan is expected to feature against Tottenham Hotspur on Monday after he was found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra during a game in October.

"Luis can help us achieve what we set out to achieve - finishing top four and reaching two finals," said Gerrard. "I'm sure he will because he's a super player.

"Luis has shown over the last 12 months that he's one of the best players in the world. So we want these players available.

"He has been missed and the players are looking forward to welcoming him back."

Suarez had scored five goals the Premier League this season before the ban.