International Break Review: Positive Updates for Liverpool Ahead of Chelsea Clash | OneFootball

International Break: Relief for Liverpool But Fingers Still Crossed

We’re not fully out of the woods yet, so it’s a touchwood and dingers crossed situation still. Liverpool’s fortunes during the current international break have been relatively kind, but the anxious waiting isn’t over. Key players have already made their way back to Anfield, giving the squad a boost ahead of the upcoming Premier League clash against Chelsea. However, there are still a few concerns lurking that keep Reds supporters on edge.

Salah and Van Dijk Back Early: A Massive Boost

Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk returning to Liverpool earlier than expected is fantastic news. Salah, after netting in Egypt’s 2-0 victory against Mauritania in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, was set to feature in another fixture. However, Egypt released him early, and the forward now has extra time to recharge ahead of Liverpool’s next match.

Photo: IMAGO

The same applies to Van Dijk, who found himself dismissed from duty after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession during the Netherlands’ UEFA Nations League draw against Hungary. With these two vital cogs in Liverpool’s machinery returning early, Arne Slot will be pleased to have them back six days ahead of the Chelsea game.

Curtis Jones: Ready for Return

Adding to Liverpool’s positive international break news, Curtis Jones has yet to play a minute during this break. The midfielder has been out of England’s camp after welcoming the birth of his child, meaning he’s fit and should be ready to feature against Chelsea. For Jones, who’s yet to really get a run due to various reasons for Liverpool, this extra time off could prove beneficial as he returns both mentally and physically prepared for club action. With Mac Allister having injury issues and a massive return flight, it wouldn’t surprise if Jones started this one.

Photo: IMAGO

Szoboszlai: Scoring for Hungary

Dominik Szoboszlai continues to impress, both for Liverpool and on the international stage. He recently scored twice for Hungary in their thrilling 2-0 win over Bosnia during the European Championship qualifiers. Szoboszlai’s form is key for the Reds, and his ability to impact the game from midfield will be crucial as the season progresses. He’ll return to Liverpool full of confidence and with his scoring boots on, which is precisely what the team needs as they look to build momentum. He was always going to play 180 minutes for his country, but hopefully this comes as a real boost for him.

Photo: IMAGO

Jota and Trent: Managed Minutes, But Fit

Diogo Jota’s workload over the break has been managed well, with the Portuguese forward only playing 90 minutes across two fixtures (61 minutes against Scotland on Tuesday night the biggest exertion). While Jota is a player who thrives on consistent game time, Slot will be relieved to see him come through without fatigue. Similarly, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has featured in every minute for England, is returning fit and firing.

Photo: IMAGO

The same goes for Cody Gakpo, Ibrahima Konaté, and Ryan Gravenberch, all of whom have played significant minutes during this break but are seemingly coming back in good shape. It’s not great news they played every minute, but as it stands them being fully fit and so many starters being injury-free is a good thing.

Concerns Linger: Diaz and Mac Allister Still in Action

Despite most of the squad returning without major issues, two potential concerns remain for Liverpool: Luis Díaz and Alexis Mac Allister. Díaz is set to play for Colombia tonight, and given his high-energy playing style, there’s always the risk of injury or fatigue. He’s a crucial part of Liverpool’s attack, and fans will be hoping he returns unscathed. The biggest worry, however, is Mac Allister.

Photo: IMAGO

The Argentine midfielder has been a consistent performer for Liverpool this season, and his international duty for Argentina often involves extensive travel and demanding fixtures. With no risk taken against Venezuela, there’s a belief that he’ll start against Bolivia. Liverpool will be keeping a close eye on their midfield maestro. His availability for the Chelsea clash could be key, especially if the game turns into a midfield battle. He could start, but Jones is the solid option if needed.

Looking Ahead to Chelsea

Overall, the international break has been relatively kind to Liverpool so far. With key players like Salah and Van Dijk back early and Curtis Jones rested, there are plenty of reasons for optimism ahead of the Chelsea game. Szoboszlai’s goalscoring form is another boost, and the careful management of Jota’s minutes means he should be fit and ready to go. However, the performances of Díaz and Mac Allister over the coming days will have Liverpool fans holding their breath. If both return fit, Slot’s side will be in great shape to take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Crossing everything before you say I’ve jinxed it.