Liverpool did not come out of the international break cleanly, but they are now back to domestic play. There are many things on the agenda for Jurgen Klopp’s side, who are still recovering from last matchday’s defeat.
Nevertheless, with the international gang back at Kirkby, players are already eyeing a win for the next domestic clash.
The Reds will be looking to make their mark as they host Gunners at Anfield. Mikel Arteta’s side are standing at 5th, just two points behind Klopp’s army.
The Reds’ priorities are obvious; allowing fewer goals and reinstating harmony are at the top of the agenda. Moreover, those recovering from injury will assist Klopp’s team in doing so.
5 key things for Liverpool after the International Break
1. The Italian Job
Liverpool’s Champions League group match against Milan in the opening week of December could be the club’s final visit to San Siro in its current state. As Milan looks to rebuild their home turf.
The Reds have played Inter previously on the historic field, in 1965 and 2008, but this will be the first meeting between Liverpool and Milan. Indeed, a memorable day away from home.
2. The return of the prodigal son
The fans at Anfield wished StevieG’s homecoming in a Red managerial tracksuit. But instead, the former legendary midfielder returns as an Aston Villa Gaffer.
He isn’t the only former red to make a homecoming, With his assistant manager Gary McAllister and Danny Ings all having already walked the Anfield pitch in a Liverpool shirt. Nevertheless, it’s going to be a special event to witness.
3. Champions League RO 16 Draw
With a perfect record in the group stage after four games, the Reds’ name is already etched into those celluloid balls that appear difficult to open. PSG, Dortmund, Inter, Barcelona, and Villareal are all likely challengers in this round, with English clubs remaining off the table.
4. The Boxing Day clash
It’s a cornerstone of the English league calendar, and Liverpool has benefited greatly in recent times, with five consecutive Boxing Day victories from 2014 to 2019. We hope it will be the same in 2021, with the strain in the championship only increasing from then on.
5. Someone’s back at feet
This might be the best new year gift for the Reds after Van Dijk’s signing in the new year of 2018. Harvey Elliott is already showing good progress in his recuperation from a bad ankle injury, but it was always believed that he wouldn’t play again until 2022.
It’s unclear how quickly he’ll return this year, but the anticipation will only build once he returns to team training.
