Liverpool have reportedly been handed a significant injury boost ahead of this Saturday’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace.
First-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker may make his first appearance in goal for Liverpool after suffering a hamstring injury during training prior to the Reds’ Champions League trip to Galatasaray.
Arne Slot told reporters Friday that the Brazilian is expected to return early.
Liverpool had been worried about their two senior goalkeepers, Alisson and Mamardashvili after Giorgi Mamardashvili, the Georgian deputy, was stretchered off during last weekend’s Merseyside derby triumph over Everton.
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Mamardashvili was replaced by third-choice stopper Freddie Woodman in the second half at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Slot Speaks
“No, Giorgi [Mamardashvili] will definitely not be available tomorrow and not for the upcoming weeks,” Slot said as reported by the Evening Standard.
“Alli [Alisson] is close to returning to play. Let’s see if tomorrow comes too early.
“That leaves Freddie [Woodman] as an option who is definitely fit.”
Slot has revealed that defender Joe Gomez, who has struggled with injuries during his time at Anfield, is fit to play against Palace, which is another positive news for Liverpool in terms of availability.
The Reds manager is optimistic that Wataru Endo, a Japan international who sustained a major ankle injury against Sunderland early in the season, will play before the season is done.
Endo’s attention is still on the World Cup, where he hopes to captain his team in the US, Canada, and Mexico this summer.
“Joe is back in the squad,” Slot said.
“It’s really helpful. Wata is starting to go out not with the team yet, exercises with the rehab team.
“He won’t be available for United or Chelsea but he could be back before the end of the season.”
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