Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has provided a major update on Mohamed Salah and Alisson Becker ahead of Friday's Premier League fixture against Aston Villa. Salah is expected to be available for selection, while Alisson remains a doubt for the penultimate game of the season.
Salah Set for Return
Mohamed Salah has been sidelined since being forced off during Liverpool's match against Crystal Palace last month with a hamstring problem. The injury had threatened to prematurely end his final season at Anfield. However, Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference on Thursday that Salah is in line to feature against Aston Villa.
"Mo will be available tomorrow for only a few minutes, but hopefully can come in," Slot said. The Egyptian forward has already confirmed he will leave Liverpool at the end of the season after agreeing to waive the final year of his contract.
Alisson Still a Doubt
Alisson Becker has been out of action since Liverpool's 4-0 Champions League win over Galatasaray in March. The Brazilian goalkeeper was expected to return this month, but Giorgi Mamardashvili and Freddie Woodman have continued to deputise. Slot provided an update on Alisson's status: "Alisson - we'll see where he is tomorrow, if he's ready or if he has to train with us for one more week."
There is growing speculation that Alisson could leave Liverpool this summer, with Juventus reportedly interested. Liverpool have triggered the option for an extra year on his contract, but his future remains uncertain.
Other Injury Updates
Slot also confirmed that Ibrahima Konate is fit after training with the squad. Florian Wirtz could also return against Aston Villa after missing last weekend's match against Chelsea due to illness. Slot revealed that Wirtz is on antibiotics for a stomach infection.
The Reds are still without long-term injury cases Hugo Ekitike, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni. However, Wataru Endo could make a return before the end of the season.
Aston Villa's Final Push
Aston Villa are preparing for their final home game of the season at Villa Park. The match is crucial for both teams as they jostle for position in the Premier League table. Liverpool will be hoping to end their season on a high note despite the ongoing uncertainty surrounding several key players.
