Liverpool have announced that Yossi Benayoun has been ruled out for three weeks after a scan revealed an adductor tear.

The injury means the Isreali international will miss the Euro 2008 qualifier against Russia and will therefore be unable to England a favour by helping his country to win over Guus Hiddink's side.

Should Russia overcome Israel 24 hours after Steve McClaren's side tackle Austria in a Vienna friendly on November 16th, England will almost certainly miss out on a major tournament for the first time since the 1994 World Cup.

The on-form Israel captain picked up the injury in the Liverpool's 2-0 win over Fulham at Anfield yesterday, according to Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez.

Club spokesman Ian Cotton said this morning: "A scan has confirmed Benayoun sustained a tear against Fulham."