Stefan Bajcetic has rejoined the Liverpool squad but remains sidelined after undergoing hamstring surgery.
Meanwhile, Ben Doak is set to be available for the Reds’ first pre-season friendly against Preston North End.
The Spain midfielder spent the second half of last season on loan at Las Palmas and was expected to feature in Liverpool’s pre-season.
However, surgery at the end of May put those plans in doubt.
Bajcetic travelled to Finland for treatment with renowned surgeon Lasse Lempainen and is currently continuing his rehabilitation at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre.
As a result, he will not be included in the squad for Sunday’s match at Deepdale.
If Bajcetic’s recovery timeline mirrors that of Joe Gomez, who required nearly three months to return from a similar hamstring surgery, the midfielder may not return until August.
His injury also complicates a potential permanent transfer, with interest reportedly cooling due to his current fitness concerns.
On a brighter note, Ben Doak has recovered from thigh surgery in March and has returned to training.
According to the Liverpool Echo, he is expected to be available for manager Arne Slot at Preston.
The 19-year-old faces an uncertain future at Anfield, especially with the arrival of Jeremie Frimpong, who adds further competition on the right flank.
Everton are among the clubs reportedly interested in signing Doak permanently.
Liverpool’s return to training has been understandably subdued as the club mourn the recent passing of Diogo Jota.
This has left some uncertainty over who will feature in the upcoming friendly.
New signings Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Giorgi Mamardashvili, Freddie Woodman, and Armin Pecsi have joined the main squad and are all expected to feature.
Additionally, Trey Nyoni and James McConnell are in contention for playing time. Meanwhile, Harvey Elliott and Tyler Morton have yet to fully return to training despite being pictured with the squad on Friday.
Before kickoff on Sunday, tributes will be paid to honour Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva.
These will include a minute’s silence, black armbands, and wreaths in remembrance.
Read more: Napoli cool interest in Darwin Nunez as Lorenzo Lucca deal nears completion
Luis Diaz admits uncertainty over Liverpool future amid ongoing transfer links
