Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara is preparing to travel to Italy ahead of The Reds’ clash with Napoli tomorrow.
That’s according to Goal, who claim that Thiago is ‘set’ to be in the squad against Napoli.
The 31-year-old had missed Liverpool’s last five games with a hamstring injury. But having recovered, Thiago is now reportedly back in full training and ready to be part of the travelling group.
Brilliant news for Liverpool fans ahead of a tricky looking test in Southern Italy. Despite the good news though, Goal further report that Jordan Henderson will be out until October with a hamstring issue of his own.
The maestro returns just in time
This is the news that every Liverpool fan has been hoping for over the opening weeks of the season.
Although he isn’t a fixer on his own, Thiago’s absence has been a big part of why Liverpool have struggled to get going. Without his invention and tenacity in midfield, The Reds have looked pedestrian.
It must be remembered that the Spaniard was part of Liverpool’s underwhelming midfield on the opening day against Fulham, though. Fans must be careful of putting too much emphasis on his individual contribution alone.
But the fact remains that Liverpool are a far better team with Thiago in it.
Despite his injury issues, he is still one of the finest midfielders of his generation. His partnership with Fabinho has been excellent when used, too. As Ian Wright said last month, his passing is absolutely ‘unbelievable.’ In short, Liverpool need him, badly.
It’s unlikely that Jurgen Klopp will throw Thiago straight back in against Napoli, though.
With Curtis Jones likely to be missing and Fabio Carvalho also a doubt, Liverpool are looking short on midfield options. Regardless, Thiago shouldn’t be rushed back in.
If he’s to stay fit for longer periods of the season, he has to be managed carefully. As a result, Arthur Melo might be a better option for tomorrow, before bringing Thiago back in for the weekend game with Wolves. Either way, it’s brilliant to have the maestro available again.
