Dec 10,2024
Caomhín Kelleher's latest run in the Liverpool starting XI could be coming to an end with the return from injury of Alisson Becker.
The Brazilian has been named in Liverpool's Champions League squad for Tuesday's match in Girona, having been sidelined since October with a hamstring problem that has seen him miss 11 matches.
The 32-year-old goalkeeper and Diogo Jota, who has not featured since sustaining a chest injury against Chelsea on 20 October, were both involved in full training at Liverpool’s AXA training complex today however the Portuguese forward was not included in the 19-man party which flew out to Spain from Merseyside for Tuesday evening’s game.
Jota has not played since sustaining a chest injury against Chelsea on 20 October, missing 10 matches.
"So happy to be back," Alisson posted on Instagram from on board the team plane before take-off.
Midfielder Alexis Mac Allister also did not travel as he is suspended.
But the return of Alisson and Jota is a boost for head coach Arne Slot ahead of the busy festive schedule to come.
The return of Becker may not be welcome news for Ireland international Kelleher, who has been enjoying lining out as Liverpool's number one since the Brazilian's injury woes.
Kelleher has kept five clean sheets, including two against Real Madrid and Manchester City, since he began covering for Alisson but made his first real error at Newcastle on Wednesday with his late misjudgement allowing the hosts to snatch a 3-3 draw.
Kelleher hasn't been shy about his desire to be a number-one keeper, but has had several opportunities to be top pick for the Reds when Alisson is injured, including a two-month stint last season.
Arne Slot has stated openly the pecking order of his keepers, but also praised Kelleher's form, which has meant Alisson hasn't been rushed back.
Forward Federico Chiesa, whose own fitness struggles have limited him to three appearances since joining late in the summer, was not present at training due to illness.
Chiesa, a €12m signing from Juventus during the summer, scored for the Under-21s last week as he stepped up his recovery.
Slot is still without defenders Ibrahima Konate, Conor Bradley and Kostas Tsimikas, who are all likely to be out until the new year.
Captain Virgil van Dijk, meanwhile, has been named in the FIFPRO Men's World11, voted for by more than 21,000 professional players around the world, for the fourth time.
