Liverpool Set for Major Injury Boost Ahead of Everton Clash – Journalist | OneFootball

Liverpool Handed Timely Injury Boost Ahead of Merseyside Derby

Liverpool approach Saturday’s Merseyside Derby against Everton in buoyant mood, not only because of their flying start under Arne Slot but also thanks to encouraging developments on the injury front. The Premier League champions have looked sharp in the early weeks of the campaign, winning four from four, and their squad depth is about to improve further.

Curtis Jones Set for Derby Return

One of the standout updates concerns Curtis Jones, who missed recent fixtures with a minor issue. According to Mail Sport’s Liverpool Confidential column, the midfielder has resumed light training and was “spotted in good spirits” at Anfield on Wednesday evening during the Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid. The same report suggests Jones is “in line to return to the squad” for the clash with Everton.

Slot has largely enjoyed a healthy group at his disposal since the season began, with Jeremie Frimpong, Conor Bradley and Alexis Mac Allister all overcoming short absences. Against Atletico, only Jones and Stefan Bajcetic were sidelined, and the expectation is that only the latter will remain unavailable this weekend.

Photo: IMAGO

Welcome Reinforcement in Hectic Schedule

Jones may not be guaranteed a starting role, but his presence in the matchday squad would represent a valuable reinforcement during a congested period of fixtures. He has already started two league games this season and come off the bench in the other two. Slot is managing a side that faces its third game in seven days when Everton arrive at Anfield, and fresh options in midfield could be decisive.

While Jones is unlikely to begin Saturday’s derby, his chances of starting the Carabao Cup tie against Southampton next week appear high. With rotation almost inevitable, Slot will be keen to utilise his full squad as Liverpool balance domestic and European commitments.

Everton Test Comes at Perfect Time for Liverpool

Everton, now managed by David Moyes, arrive at Anfield hoping to disrupt the champions’ early momentum. However, the return of Jones adds to the sense that Liverpool are well prepared. With a largely injury-free squad, an in-form attack and the backing of a home crowd, Slot’s team look well positioned for the first Merseyside Derby of the season.

Liverpool’s ability to maintain this level of fitness could prove decisive across the campaign. Injuries were a factor in past seasons, and to be entering a derby with almost a full complement available is rare good fortune. As Slot seeks to consolidate the Reds’ position at the top of the Premier League, the reintroduction of Jones provides another reason for optimism on the red half of Merseyside.