Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez will not attend Sunday afternoon's meeting with Arsenal following surgery to remove kidney stones.
The Spaniard has missed recent training sessions with his club as he underwent a rehabilitation period following minor surgery.
Assistant manager Sammy Lee had been in charge of the Reds as they prepared for the trip to the Emirates Stadium, but Benitez was expected to return in time for the weekend clash.
However, those hopes have been dashed following the news that the former Valencia boss will be missing when his side take on Arsenal.
Lee will be the Reds' stand-in chief as the Anfield outfit look to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League.
