A growing list of injuries has marred the impressive season for the Reds yet the team continues to thrive. As Liverpool gear up for a Premier League clash against Bournemouth on January 21, here’s a comprehensive injury update on the sidelined players and their expected return dates.
Dominik Szoboszlai: Eager to Return
Dominik Szoboszlai, who suffered a hamstring injury in Liverpool’s 4-2 win over Newcastle United on New Year’s Day, is progressing well in his recovery.
The Hungarian midfielder, crowned Hungarian Sportsman of The Year for the second time, has been running without the ball and anticipates trying to train with the ball soon.
While expressing optimism about a potential return against Fulham on January 24, Szoboszlai emphasizes a cautious approach to prevent setbacks.
“I’d rather miss one more match, if that’s what it takes, so that I don’t injure the previous strain and can play continuously.”
Szoboszlai stated.
Expected Return Date: Fulham (A), Wednesday, January 24.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: Comeback in February
Trent Alexander-Arnold is facing a setback in his Liverpool journey due to a knee injury that resulted from hyperextension during the 2-0 victory at Arsenal. Assistant manager Pep Lijnders revealed a tear in the lateral ligament, requiring Alexander-Arnold to undergo a recovery period.
The right-back is expected to return to action in early February, leaving a temporary void in Liverpool’s defensive lineup. Considering his crucial role in the team’s strategies, his absence is a significant blow.
Liverpool fans will anxiously await Alexander-Arnold’s return to strengthen the squad.
Expected Return Date: Early February 2024.
Andy Robertson: Timely Return on the Horizon
Andy Robertson is poised for a timely return to the Merseyside squad after a prolonged absence due to a shoulder dislocation suffered on international duty with Scotland in October. The left-back, a key figure in Liverpool’s defensive setup, is approaching the three-month mark of his recovery.
Assistant manager Pep Lijnders has mentioned that Robertson will undergo a thorough check by the surgeon, with the expectation that he’ll be back in action by late January. This return is a welcome boost for Jurgen Klopp, as the Reds currently grapple with defensive setbacks without first-choice full-backs.
Robertson’s imminent return promises to strengthen the team’s backline as they navigate a challenging season.
Expected Return Date: Late January 2024.
Kostas Tsimikas: Recovering from Collarbone Break, Returns January
Kostas Tsimikas, Liverpool’s stand-in left-back, suffered a collarbone break in a collision during a Premier League match against Arsenal. The injury occurred after a challenge from Bukayo Saka, leaving Tsimikas in considerable pain.
Despite the setback, Tsimikas is progressing well, and Lijnders anticipates his return to team training by the end of January.
The Greek international’s recovery is crucial for bolstering Liverpool’s defensive depth, providing valuable support in the left-back position. Fans eagerly await Tsimikas’s return, hoping to see him back in action soon.
Expected Return Date: End of January 2024.
Thiago Alcantara: Prolonged Absence Continues, Return in February
Thiago Alcantara, the midfield virtuoso for Liverpool, is poised to in February after a prolonged absence due to a troublesome hip issue. Despite undergoing surgery last April, Thiago has diligently worked to rejoin the first-team setup.
The Spanish international’s highly anticipated return will significantly boost Liverpool’s midfield, offering his creative flair and technical prowess. Fans expect to see Thiago back in action next month, injecting vitality into Liverpool’s quest for success in various competitions.
His return marks a crucial moment for Jurgen Klopp’s squad as they strive to maintain their impressive form.
Expected Return Date: Sometime in February 2024.
Stefan Bajcetic: Frustration Persists
Stefan Bajcetic, the promising young talent for Liverpool, has faced persistent injury challenges, hampering his contributions to the team. Having suffered a stress response in his adductor last season and a subsequent calf issue, Bajcetic is set to return to training in February.
Despite the setbacks, the club remains optimistic about his recovery, anticipating a return to entire team training by the end of February. The coaching staff, including Pep Lijnders, has reported a smooth progression in Bajcetic’s rehabilitation, with no complications hindering his comeback.
Liverpool fans eagerly await the young defender to return to the team, hoping he can showcase the talent that marked his promising debut campaign last season.
Expected Return Date: End of February 2024.
Joel Matip: Season-Long Absence
Joel Matip, Liverpool’s seasoned center-back, is on the road to recovery after undergoing surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Unfortunately, the 32-year-old is expected to miss the rest of the season, leaving a significant void in the defensive lineup. Matip’s absence challenges Jurgen Klopp as the team navigates crucial fixtures.
The exact return date for Matip remains uncertain, underscoring the severity of his injury and the extended rehabilitation period required for a full recovery. Liverpool fans anxiously await updates on Matip’s progress, hoping to see the experienced defender back in action soon.
Expected Return Date: Unknown.
Ben Doak: Long-Term Setback
Ben Doak faces a substantial recovery period after tearing his lateral meniscus, requiring surgery. The severity of the injury suggests an extended hiatus, making it challenging to pinpoint a precise return date.
Liverpool’s coaching staff emphasizes allowing ample time for Doak’s recovery, acknowledging the young player’s resilience.
No specific date is provided for Ben Doak, but the club remains optimistic about his eventual comeback. Patience and proper rehabilitation are prioritized to ensure Doak returns to the field with the same vigor and skill that characterized his play.
Expected Return Date: Unknown