Arnold Update Before Real Madrid Clash
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Liverpool fans have been handed a mix of good and bad news regarding injuries ahead of a crucial week for the Reds. Head coach Arne Slot has provided updates on several key players as Liverpool prepares for Sunday's Premier League clash against Southampton and the upcoming Champions League showdown with Real Madrid.
Virgil van Dijk Returns to Boost the Reds
There’s relief for Liverpool supporters as captain Virgil van Dijk has been declared fit and available for selection. The Dutch defender was allowed an early return from international duty, sparking concerns over a potential injury. However, Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman and Slot have both confirmed that Van Dijk is in good shape and ready to lead the team at St Mary’s Stadium.
“Virgil is all good, he's training with us today,” Slot said during his pre-match press conference, reassuring fans of the center-back's readiness for action.
Trent Alexander-Arnold Recovery Timeline
While Van Dijk’s return is a positive, the status of Trent Alexander-Arnold remains uncertain. The Reds’ vice-captain was forced off the pitch during Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Aston Villa almost two weeks ago, a hamstring issue severe enough to rule him out of England’s UEFA Nations League matches.
Although Alexander-Arnold is yet to return to full training, Slot sounded optimistic about his progress:
“Trent isn't training with us yet, but he's getting there, so we expect him to be back with us soon.”
Updates on Jota, Chiesa, and Elliott
Liverpool’s attacking options also face challenges, with Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa still working their way back to fitness. Slot hinted that their returns are on the horizon but ruled them out for Sunday’s match:
“Jota is still away from the group, the same as Federico, who is coming back into the session maybe one exercise today. They are all expected to be back within now and a few weeks.”
Meanwhile, young midfielder Harvey Elliott is nearing a return to full fitness after being sidelined since the September international break. Slot expressed his delight at Elliott’s progress:
“Harvey is training with us again, so that's a positive. He's been out for many weeks, but he's on the training ground again with the team.”
Alisson Becker Still Not Ready
Unfortunately, Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker won’t be ready to face Southampton despite resuming training during the international break. Alisson has been out since early October due to a hamstring injury. Slot emphasized caution with his recovery:
“We are careful with everyone, especially when it comes to muscle injuries. He's back in training with the goalkeeping coach but not training with the team yet.”
Looking Ahead to Real Madrid and Manchester City
As Liverpool braces for a defining week, Slot hinted that Alisson and Jota are unlikely to feature in the Champions League tie against Real Madrid or the Premier League clash against Manchester City. However, Alexander-Arnold’s return remains a possibility.
“With Alexander-Arnold, it’s going to be ‘in between,’” Slot revealed, suggesting a race against time for the star defender.
Final Thoughts
Liverpool’s injury updates present a mixed bag of news as the Reds gear up for pivotal fixtures. While Van Dijk’s availability strengthens the defense, the absence of key players like Alisson and Alexander-Arnold may pose significant challenges. Nevertheless, the anticipated returns of players like Elliott and Chiesa in the coming weeks provide hope for Liverpool as they navigate a congested and critical part of their season.
