Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has provided an important update on the fitness of Alisson, following a lengthy absence for the goalkeeper.
The 32-year-old hasn’t featured for the Reds since the beginning of October, having been forced off with a hamstring issue away to Crystal Palace.
Thankfully, Liverpool have excelled without Alisson in the team, with Caoimhin Kelleher producing a superb run of form, helping them go nine points clear at the top of the Premier League.
That’s not to say that the Brazilian’s return won’t feel significant, however, and speaking to reporters before the trip to Newcastle United on Wednesday [via This Is Anfield], Slot confirmed that he expects to see his ‘keeper back in action before the end of the year:
“We’re just waiting for the moment that Alisson is completely fit, because Caoimh is doing too well to put Alisson in goal if he’s only at 50 percent. That would not be good for Alisson and not be good for the team. He’s getting there. It might take a few more extra days, but he’s getting closer and closer.
“Like I’ve always said, the end phase of rehab is always the period where you feel like ‘OK, is he really there or does he need a few extra days?’. But he will be in goal before the end of December, if things continue like they are now.”
Our thoughts on Alisson’s injury latest…
Liverpool mustn’t rush Alisson back into the fold, and fortunately, they have the luxury of Kelleher playing so well that there isn’t a huge need to get him in the team again.
That said, it goes without saying that the Reds’ No.1 will be straight back in once Slot feels he is fully fit, considering he remains arguably the best ‘keeper in world football.
Virgil van Dijk has enjoyed an incredible Liverpool career alongside Alisson, describing his teammate as “very important” and a “big, big leader”, and Slot’s table-toppers will look even more formidable with him in the starting lineup.
For now, though, it’s a case of continuing to rely on Kelleher, hoping that he keeps up his imperious form in two huge away games at Newcastle and Everton this week.
