Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has finally something to smile about after their disappointing start to the ongoing campaign as the star players are back in training and available for selection including Virgil Van Dijk.
Liverpool was without the service of the big Dutchman after Liverpool’s anchor of the defense was ruled out due to a hamstring injury earlier last month against Brentford.
Diogo Jota, Virgil van Dijk, Roberto Firmino and Arthur Melo all make their return to team training ahead of Monday's Merseyside derby. pic.twitter.com/4khwO13lOB
— Keifer MacDonald (@KeiferMacD) February 9, 2023
The finest defender in the Premier League is back on the grass after completing his participation in full training with the rest of the squad for the first time since he injured himself.
When asked about the condition of the big defender, Klopp told reports, “Yesterday (in training), he looked absolutely ready. I think he is available for selection.”
Liverpool missed the service of the legendary defender as well as the likes of Diogo Jota, bobby Firmino, Thiago Alcantara, and a whole lot of other important squad members that hindered Jurgen Klopp’s team and played a massive part in their downfall.
Virgil van Dijk is set to start at St James Park against Newcastle tomorrow evening 😍
— Anfield Watch (@AnfieldWatch) February 17, 2023
Liverpool currently sitting ninth in the PL points table with nine points separating them from the most important UCL qualification spot as Newcastle are well and truly established themselves in the position.
Liverpool will trip to St. James Park on February 18 for their match against the Magpies and Klopp believes it will be a massive game for them in terms of hopes of qualifying for the UCL next season.
“Massive game. We have to chase everybody. We have to give it a try and that’s what we do. Newcastle has the best defense in the league. Lost once and that was against us. Very consistent. The first step to success. It will be interesting.”- Klopp said during the press conference.
A 𝗵𝘂𝗴𝗲 goal at St James Park 😍pic.twitter.com/C0M3GqvAL9
— Anfield Watch (@AnfieldWatch) February 15, 2023
Playing against Newcastle on their home turf with their home support backing them is not easy as The Magpies are unbeaten at home in the PL this season and Klopp reminded his team about the difficulties Newcastle are going to throw at them.
“It has always been a tough place or us to go and hopefully we can build on the performance on Monday. Our other wins after World Cup were different, this time it was ‘us’ and we can build on that.”- the German concluded.
