Specialist optimistic for Sissoko

Sissoko was carried off and taken to a Lisbon hospital

Liverpool have said there has been an improvement in Mohamed Sissoko's condition after the midfielder suffered a serious eye injury against Benfica.

Sissoko, 21, was kicked in the face during Tuesday's Champions League loss and there were fears over his sight because of possible retina damage.

A club statement said: "We are glad to report there has been an improvement in Momo's condition in the last 24 hours."

He was examined by a London specialist, who "remains optimistic".

I want to apologise - I did not mean to injure him Benfica midfielder Beto

He was kicked in the head by Beto during the match with Benfica, which Liverpool lost 1-0.

Sissoko was carried off on a stretcher after only 35 minutes of the encounter and flew back from Portugal on Wednesday following an overnight stay in hospital.

He is currently under the care of specialists in London and has been instructed to rest for another week before being examined again.

Benfica's midfielder Beto insisted he had not intended to injure Sissoko.

"My boot caught Sissoko in the face and it opened a big wound around the eye," said the Brazilian.

"I want to apologise - I did not mean to injure him. It was just a typical 50-50 midfield situation that happens all the time.

"It happened but I did not mean to harm him and I hope he recovers quickly."

Mali international Sissoko has impressed since moving from Valencia for £5.6m last summer.