Liverpool’s sights are firmly fixed on what’s to come on the other side of the international break. Jürgen Klopp still has to wait with baited breath to see if he can avoid any fresh injury scares, but after the players report back to the AXA Training Centre, it’s an uninterrupted sprint to the finish line.
The break was somewhat unwanted, not only because of the risk of injuries but also because it forced Liverpool to dwell on the disappointing FA Cup defeat to Manchester United. However, the Reds still have an awful lot to play for in what’s left of the season, and Klopp should have one or two more players to call upon after the hiatus.
While the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Diogo Jota are still expected to be a week or so away from a return once Premier League action recommences, others could be in contention for the Brighton fixture on March 31. Win that, and Klopp will return to the top of the table, knowing that only a win for Arsenal against Manchester City later on in the day could dethrone his side.
That’s bound to be a defining clash in the title race, as Klopp looks to sign off in what would be the perfect style. All the while, however, Liverpool is having to cast around for a successor, with Richard Hughes set to take up his role as sporting director in the summer and Michael Edwards in place as FSG’s CEO of football.
With that in mind, here are two stories from today that you shouldn’t miss. We’ll start with good news on the injury front.
Curtis Jones to unlock elite Liverpool trio
While Klopp will have to be patient in other areas, his midfield is set for an immediate boost after the international break. Curtis Jones is expected to be in line for the Brighton game.
An accomplished player in his own right, he also appeared to be forming an excellent triumvirate prior to his untimely setback. The Academy graduate had established himself as a regular starter alongside Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.
Of course, the form of Wataru Endō could yet break that up even when everyone is fit. But for the first time in nearly nine weeks (60 days, to be precise), Klopp will soon be able to field this trio. That’s a huge boost, writes Matt Addison, and you can read the story in full by clicking here.
