Naby Keita set to feature for Liverpool vs. Sheffield United for first time in 3 months

Naby Keita is set to feature for Liverpool against Sheffield United which will be music to the ears of Reds supporters around the world.

This is according to the same source that has been keeping Anfield Central updated with the status of Jürgen Klopp's injured stars. Most recently, we were briefed on Virgil van Dijk's rehab plan for the next few weeks.

In fact, almost exactly a month ago, we reported that Liverpool were taking a slow and measured approach to getting Keita fit and it looks as though that process is set to yield a first start for the Guinean in three months.

The dynamo will start from the bench with Klopp set to bring Keita in from the bench to slowly get his match fitness levels up after another lengthy layoff.

Most promisingly, Keita's last 90 minutes for Liverpool came during their 7-0 rout of Crystal Palace just before Christmas. Since then, things have fallen apart for the Merseysiders, falling from four points clear at the top of the table to 22 points off the pace.

The former RB Leipzig star's return to the fold won't magically transform Liverpool back into the world-beaters they were several months ago but it will go a long way towards solving their creativity issue.

Liverpool have been blighted by injuries - especially to defenders - but not having their best midfielders fit or in their correct positions certainly has not helped.

Liverpool absolutely have to finish in the top four if they have any ambitions of signing the likes of Erling Haaland or Kylian Mbappe this summer. Keita's return to fitness will aid this mission but first and foremost, the 26-year-old needs to focus on remaining fit until the end of the season.

If he manages this, Liverpool's fortunes serve only to improve.