Gerrard is proving to be one of Liverpool's most resilient players.

He can now compete in matches in spite of his renowned growing pains, rather than be sidelined because of them.

The England international is sick of being told he is injury jinxed after months of problems with hamstring and groin injuries.

But the 20-year-old claimed he has emerged from that phase of his young professional life capable of handling the pressures.

He said: "There's no problem with me being able to play in both the cup finals even if they are just five days apart."

Gerrard will be a key Liverpool figure in the FA Cup final against Arsenal and will then turn his talents to next Wednesday's Uefa Cup final against Alaves in Dortmund.

"I'm determined to play in the remaining games," he said. "There have been many times this season that I have played three games in a week, I'm certainly going to be fit for both the finals."

In fact, Gerrard has figured in 46 matches this season - and that total is only bettered by Markus Babbel, Dietmar Hamann, Stephane Henchoz, Emile Heskey, goalkeeper Sander Westerveld and Sami Hyypia.

"I'm definitely improving with my overall fitness," said Gerrard.

"Just look at the amount of games I have played in this season, my ratio this season is much better than last season."

Gerrard will also be expected to play in the final game of the season at Charlton on May 19 when Liverpool's Champions League fate will be decided.

And he is more than aware of the importance of that clash at The Valley, adding: "I still think the league games are the most important, financially for the club because of the Champions League and for myself because I want to be playing in the competition.

"We have to keep going and win the two cups and make sure we finish third. Nothing less than that will do now."