Joe Gomez made his return to training on Wednesday ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth, following an Achilles injury.
Gomez has missed the last two-and-a-half weeks of training along with the friendlies against AC Milan, Yokohama F. Marinos, Athletic Club and the Community Shield loss to Crystal Palace.
But the versatile defender is now back in training and could soon be in contention for matchday involvement again.
Liverpool worked at the AXA Training Centre throughout Wednesday as they prepare for the visit of Bournemouth on Friday night, with Gomez rejoining his teammates for indoor and outdoor work.
Also involved again was James McConnell, with the young midfielder having built up his fitness and game time during pre-season with the U21s after an ankle issue.
McConnell has now resumed training with the senior squad, though is expected to leave the club on loan after signing a new contract.
A strong squad were put through their paces in the Kirkby sunshine, including Ryan Gravenberch, who missed the Community Shield following the birth of his daughter.
The Dutchman will not be part of the squad to face Bournemouth, however, as he is suspended due to the red card he picked up on the final day of last season.
That means Arne Slot will turn to either Curtis Jones or Alexis Mac Allister – both in training on Wednesday – to join Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz in midfield.
Gomez’s return comes at a timely juncture, with Liverpool advancing on deals for two new defenders.
Talks are ongoing with Crystal Palace for Marc Guehi, with an agreement expected at £35 million, while Parma defender Giovanni Leoni is set to join in a deal worth around £30 million.
It remains to be seen if Conor Bradley will be passed fit for Friday’s opener but Jeremie Frimpong should start at right-back regardless.
Also involved on Wednesday was Kostas Tsimikas, despite the left-back being omitted from the Community Shield squad due to growing interest in a permanent transfer.