But Jurgen Klopp still wants to bring back a number of players as Liverpool continue to struggle on four fronts. The latest injury news and the possibility of a Reds squad returning ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Chelsea at Anfield.
Alexis McAllister – Back
The midfielder was left out of the squad for the win against Norwich on the day. Klopp said Mac Allister can play if needed but prefers to be cautious about making mistakes. Possible second leg: Chelsea (H), Wednesday 31 January.
Thiago Alcantara – Hip
The former Bayern player was ruled out for nine months after undergoing hip surgery in April. Thiago had a couple of poor starts to the season but returned to training last week. Once he’s built up his stamina and strength, a lot will depend on when he’ll be ready.
Possible second leg: Arsenal (A), Sunday 4 February or Burnley (H), Saturday 10
February.
Mo salah hamstring
Liverpool’s talisman will not return after Egypt suffered a penalty shoot-out defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the last 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations. This could put pressure on Salah to recover, but he does not want to miss too many games of Liverpool’s season. He won’t be here for at least another week or two. Second leg scheduled: Brentford (away), Saturday 17 February.
Kostas Tsimimas
He suffered a broken bone.The left flank has been missing for the past month. Klopp recently admitted that Tsimikas is fit, but Liverpool are waiting for him to return to training. Possible return game: February
Stefan Bajcetic
Stefan Bajcetic is going through some growing pains. Liverpool have been cautious about the 19-year-old given the nature of his injury. Klopp said last week that it won’t be long before Bajcetic returns to Liverpool after an outstanding season in 2022/23.
Possible return game: February
Joel Matip – ACL
The defender, who underwent surgery last month, continues his rehabilitation. There is no timetable for when Matip can return and some are concerned that he may not play this season.
Possible return games: N/A
Ben Doak – Knee
The 18-year-old midfielder is scheduled to undergo surgery in December and is not expected to return anytime soon. Possible return games: N/A
Wataru Endo – Asian Cup
The midfielder hopes to lead Japan to victory. “Samurai Blue” will play Bahrain in the round of 16 on Wednesday. Much will depend on how far Japan, the bookies’ favourites, advance in the final on February 10. Possible return match: Brentford (A), Saturday February 17.
