Liverpool Receive Major Fitness Boost Ahead of Premier League Title Run-In
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp provided a hugely positive update ahead of the Reds’ Premier League clash with Sheffield United. Speaking in his pre-match press conference, the German provided the latest updates on a number of key players, such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker, Diogo Jota and many more.
The fitness boost comes at the perfect time as Liverpool enter the final stages of the 2023/24 season, with their sights set firmly on the Premier League title.
Jones and Robertson’s Return
Jurgen Klopp confirmed that both Curtis Jones and Andy Robertson are back in contention for selection ahead of Thursday’s clash with Sheffield United. Jones had been missing from Liverpool’s first-team since the 4-1 away victory over Brentford earlier this year, after picking up an injury in the first-half of that game.
Robertson had previously recovered from a long-term shoulder injury, but picked up another minor knock when on international duty with Scotland. The full-back was forced off the pitch with an ankle issue, but the experienced defender will likely be in tomorrow’s squad.
Ibou Konate could be in contention for a start on Thursday, after missing Sunday’s clash with Brighton. However, it also wouldn’t surprise me if Klopp opted to use Konate for the upcoming Manchester United clash.
Getting Closer
There were also positive updates on Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker, Diogo Jota and Stefan Bajcetic. All four players are expected to return to first-team training next week –Â following Liverpool’s Premier League clashes with Sheffield United and Manchester United.
Trent, Alisson and Jota have all been out of action since February, whereas Bajcetic has only made two appearances so far this season due to a number of serious injuries.
Klopp also revealed that Joel Matip is back out on the training ground and running on grass once again. There will definitely be hopes for a potential return for the Cameroonian before the end of the season.
Potential Doubts
As well as the above four players, Wataru Endo could also be a doubt for Liverpool’s clash with Sheffield United. Jurgen Klopp revealed in his press conference that the 31-year-old picked up a slight knock in the Reds’ 2-1 victory over Brighton at the weekend.
The German admitted that a late decision will be made regarding the inclusion of the Japanese midfielder, but the Anfield faithful will have their fingers crossed for Endo’s inclusion on Thursday.
Either way, the issue isn’t expected to be bad enough to rule Endo out of Liverpool’s crunch fixture against Manchester United at the weekend. As for Thursday, both Harvey Elliott and Ryan Gravenberch will be eyeing a spot in Klopp’s starting eleven.