Jurgen Klopp confirms triple Liverpool boost as Arsenal face nightmare

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reviews the Chelsea game

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that he has welcomed three big names back to training ahead of Sunday’s meeting with Arsenal. And at least two are in line to feature in the Premier League clash, leaving Mikel Arteta with a daunting task in his hunt for the title.

In his press conference, Klopp revealed to the media that Virgil van Dijk was back in contention after missing the 0-0 draw at Chelsea through illness.

And the German boss added that Thiago and Luis Diaz were training ‘completely normally’ after recent lay-offs.

Diaz’s return will be managed with more caution after his lengthy absence, but Van Dijk and Thiago could start against Arsenal.

He said: “Virgil is back in training. Luis and Thiago trained completely normally.

“The plan for Luis is that he will be 100 per cent available for Leeds. We will probably not involve him for Sunday. Thiago is slightly different and might be available.”

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Arsenal will travel to Merseyside under pressure, knowing only Leeds United have beaten Liverpool at Anfield in the Premier League this season.

That pressure may be ramped up if Manchester City beat Southampton on Saturday and close the gap to five points.

Van Dijk and Thiago’s availability would allow Klopp to field a full-strength side, only making the mountain Arteta’s side must climb steeper.

But securing a result at Anfield is unofficially recognised as a sign of champions. Doing so would send a significant statement.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Andrew Robertson, Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo didn’t start at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

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All four players will be well-rested, along with Van Dijk and Thiago, who instantly upgrade Klopp’s defence and midfield.

Liverpool are clinging on to their fading hopes of a top-four finish, currently 10 points behind Manchester United.

The Reds could trail their bitter rivals by 13 points when the time to face Arsenal comes around, so defeat would be catastrophic.

Arsenal will view the Liverpool clash as one of nine cup finals before they can lift their first Premier League title since 2004.

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