Liverpool are set to welcome Diogo Jota back from the knee injury that has seen him sidelined for 18 games this season.
This is according to Anfield Central sources. A contact close to the club can reveal that the Portuguese international will resume full team training later this week.
His dribbling, finishing and link-up play have been sorely missed and with the Reds now 19 points behind Manchester City and five points behind fourth-placed West Ham United, his return to the side will boost Liverpool’s chances of securing Champions League qualification.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 29: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Diogo Jota of Liverpool during a training session at Melwood Training Ground on October 29, 2020 in Liverpool, England. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY ANDREW POWELL/LIVERPOOL FC VIA GETTY IMAGES.
Jota has scored 9 goals in 15 Premier League and Champions League fixtures. By contrast, Mane and Firmino have just 11 and 6 respectively despite playing double the games.
Mohamed Salah has been forced to carry the burden of scoring most of Liverpool’s goals this season, with 17 in the Premier League, 4 in the Champions League and 3 in the FA Cup.
Jota’s goals will boost Liverpool’s ability to beat teams that set up with a low block but it’s his dribbling and ability to turn on a sixpence and drive at opposition defenders that will make the biggest difference.
BERGAMO, ITALY – NOVEMBER 03: Diogo Jota of Liverpool FC scores the opening goal during the UEFA Champions League Group D stage match between Atalanta BC and Liverpool FC at Gewiss Stadium on November 03, 2020 in Bergamo, Italy. PHOTO BY EMILIO ANDREOLI/GETTY IMAGES
Additionally, he’s the club’s most two-footed attacker meaning he is able to pop up in different positions and affect the game with ease.
Naby Keita is also close to a return to action after being named on the bench against Everton – his first matchday involvement for 66 days and 14 games.
