Liverpool’s Colombian winger, Luis Diaz, is expected to return to the matchday squad against Leeds United on Monday after missing most of the 2022/23 season due to a knee injury.
Luis Diaz is back
Liverpool World reported that the player will likely be on the bench against Leeds United. Jurgen Klopp shared that the dynamic winger had returned to full-team training and was available for the game.
“Luis will be back in full and normal team training and available for the game [against Leeds],”
Klopp said after Liverpool’s most recent game against Arsenal.
“So these things are really, really good news.”
Diaz had shown great form before his injury and had contributed in 18 goals and assists combined in just 38 matches. Liverpool’s disappointing season so far would have been positively impacted if he had remained fit.
Liverpool reported that Diaz’s return from injury would be a major boost for Liverpool in their quest to qualify for the Champions League.
Leeds United must put in a strong defensive performance against Liverpool to avoid being torn apart by Diaz, Cody Gakpo, and Mohamed Salah on the counterattack.
The fixture against Liverpool is an opportunity for Leeds United to forget their 5-1 home defeat to Crystal Palace.
What is wrong with the Reds this season?
Liverpool have been inconsistent this season, and they need to put in impressive performances like the one against Arsenal to have any hope of making the top four spots.
Despite nine victories from nine, Liverpool may not make the top four due to Manchester United and Newcastle being 12 points ahead, with the same number of games played.
Liverpool are being cautious with Diaz’s return and is hoping that he can come off the bench in each of the remaining nine games this season.
Liverpool’s season has been plagued with injuries, and key players have been absent throughout the season, which has affected their performance.
Liverpool needed to strengthen their midfield last summer, and their defensive frailties were exposed when that was not done.
Klopp’s best defender, Ibrahima Konate, has also been out with a knee and hamstring injury, which has overworked Virgil van Dijk. In addition, Curtis Jones and Diogo Jota have also been out for long periods.
Though this week has been dominated by the news of Liverpool’s supposed U-turn on Jude Bellingham, Klopp, and his players will be focused on other matters.
Diaz is slated to be part of the matchday group at Elland Road on Monday night, which will mark his first involvement in over six months.
Passionate about the beautiful game and dedicated to Liverpool FC, where “You’ll Never Walk Alone” is not just a slogan, but a way of life. I live and breathe football, from the roar of the Anfield crowd to the tactical intricacies of the sport.
My expertise lies in dissecting the transfer market, tracking player movements, and uncovering the hidden gems destined for greatness. Whether it’s discussing potential signings, analyzing match strategies, or celebrating the brilliance of players, I’m always ready for a football conversation.
