Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp says he is hopeful that Diogo Jota will be available for the Champions League tie against Real Madrid next month.
The Portuguese international has been out since October after injuring his calf in the 1-0 win over Manchester City but, when asked about a potential return date for the forward, Klopp replied:
“I don’t know exactly how long he will be out for, but he looks really good. He is out there on the pitch and doing a lot of stuff already but he will be out for another few weeks. Is he in contention for the Champions League? From my point of view, yes. But I don’t know. Yes.”
Supporters on Twitter are delighted to hear that Jota will be back in action soon, with many feeling that the 26-year-old could bring some much-needed energy to the frontline:
YES. Like a January signing.
— Matt (@uixmat) January 17, 2023
be glad to see him back
— Sarah Perry (@SarahPe80214098) January 16, 2023
YAY
— The Anfield Buzz (@anfield_buzz) January 16, 2023
i miss him smmmm
— TAA (@sean_kelly6) January 17, 2023
World class striker is back!
— Daniel S (@8008_daniel) January 17, 2023
🥰
— Suiberto Chami (@suibalelo) January 17, 2023
— Dean Kennedy (@deankeno25) January 16, 2023
Hope to see hım on the pitch
— Life is good (@saidbatur) January 17, 2023
Despite recruiting Cody Gakpo from PSV, the Reds are short of options upfront at the moment, with Jota, Luis Diaz and Roberto Firmino all still on the treatment table.
Getting them all back fit and available as soon as possible could prove crucial in ensuring Liverpool finish the season strongly. Klopp’s men have struggled at both ends of the pitch since the World Cup and Jota’s return, in particular, could help the Reds recover some ground on those above them in the table.