Liverpool return to Premier League action today as they host Fulham at Anfield for a 3pm kick-off.
Arne Slot’s side will be looking to strengthen their position at the top of the table, where they currently hold a four-point lead over second-placed Chelsea.
However, the visit of Marco Silva’s Fulham is unlikely to be straightforward.
The Cottagers have proven tough opponents, recently holding title contenders Arsenal to a draw at Craven Cottage.
Liverpool will need to be at their best to overcome the challenge posed by the Londoners.
One positive for Slot is the improving injury situation at the club.
The Reds have been without several first-team players in recent weeks, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Key goalkeeper Alisson Becker returned to action on Tuesday night in the 2-1 win over Girona after a two-month absence.
Additionally, Diogo Jota is back after recovering from an upper-body injury sustained during a collision with Tosin Adarabioyo in Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Fulham in October.
Federico Chiesa is also nearing a return, although Klopp admitted the Italian may need a little more time to regain full match fitness after making just three appearances since his £10million transfer from Juventus in August.
Jota rejoined full training this week, and Klopp confirmed that both he and Chiesa could be named on the bench for today’s match against Fulham.
Another positive sign for the manager was Kostas Tsimikas training separately from his teammates on Thursday.
While the Greek defender will not be available for selection against Fulham, his progress toward full fitness is encouraging.
Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley, however, are further behind in their recovery from injuries sustained during the clash with Real Madrid.
Liverpool will be without Alexis Mac Allister for today’s match after the midfielder’s suspension for accumulating five yellow cards was extended following the postponement of the Merseyside derby.
Tyler Morton, who picked up an injury ahead of the trip to Girona, will also miss out.
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