Kewell's injury ruled him out Australia's game with Italy

It was initially reported that the 27-year-old had gout but he has since been diagnosed with a bacterial infection that has required surgery.

"He is undergoing treatment in hospital following a surgical procedure," said a Liverpool club spokesman.

"He is expected to make a complete recovery and should resume training in approximately six weeks' time."

The Australia international will miss the first leg of the Champions League third qualifying-round tie on 8/9 August, the Community Shield against Chelsea on the 13 August and the opening Premiership game against Sheffield United on 20 August.

Kewell's international team-mate Scott Chipperfield was quoted as saying: "Harry's got gout on his foot" following the 1-0 defeat by Italy.

"It is unfortunate that another Australian player spoke publicly about his condition rather than an official spokesperson for the national team," said the Liverpool spokesman.

"His team-mate suggested that Harry had been suffering from gout, which we can confirm was an incorrect diagnosis."