Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been ruled out of action until September, after suffering complications in his recovery from a groin problem.
The 31-year-old midfielder was admitted to hospital with an infection related to the injury, and has subsequently begun a course of antibiotics.
Gerrard has not played for the Reds since the middle of March, and manager Kenny Dalglish had hoped to have him back in action for the start of the new season.
However, a statement on the official club website confirmed that the England international would be out for the opening games of the campaign.
"Steven Gerrard today began a course of antibiotic treatment for an infection related to an ongoing groin problem," it said.