Arne Slot sets Alisson injury return timeframe

Liverpool boss Arne Slot expects goalkeeper Alisson Becker to return to the squad in December after being sidelined with a hamstring injury.

The Reds have flown to the top of both the Premier League and Champions League tables after an immense start to life under the Dutchman. They've so far lost just one of 13 top-flight games this season, albeit without their first-choice goalkeeper between the sticks in recent weeks.

Alisson has been out of action since Liverpool's 1-0 win over Crystal Palace in October, leaving the pitch early after sustaining a blow to his hamstring. Understudy Caoimhin Kelleher has since stepped up in place of the Brazilian - successfully maintaining Liverpool's early dominance.

But Slot expects to have Alisson back before the year is out, putting a timeframe on his return.

"I have been clear a few weeks ago about what my position is about our goalkeepers," he told reporters on Tuesday.

"But we are just waiting for the moment that Alisson is completely fit because Caoimhin is doing too well to put Alisson in goal if he is only on 50%. That would not be good for Alisson and not be good for the team.

"He's getting there. It might take a few more extra days but he's getting closer and closer and like I've always said the end phase of rehab is always the period where you feel like, 'okay, is he really there or does he need a few extra days?'

"But he will be in goal before the end of December if things continue like they are."

Liverpool are due to host Leicester City on Boxing Day, before finishing 2024 with a trip to West Ham United on 29 December. Manchester United visit Anfield in the first game of 2025 on 5 January. In the meantime, the Reds are in action on Wednesday when they travel to face Newcastle United.

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