Joe Gomez is back in full training ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League curtain-raiser against Bournemouth on Friday night, handing Arne Slot a timely lift.
The 28-year-old, Liverpool’s longest-serving current player, had returned early from the pre-season tour of the Far East with an Achilles injury. His absence ruled him out for three weeks, including games against AC Milan, Yokohama F. Marinos, Athletic Club and the Community Shield loss to Crystal Palace.
On Wednesday, Gomez rejoined his teammates at the AXA Training Centre for both indoor and outdoor work as preparations stepped up for the first league game of the season at Anfield.
His return bolsters a back line that had been stretched, with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate the only fit senior centre-backs during his spell out.
Also back in senior training was James McConnell. The young midfielder, who recently signed a new contract, has been building his sharpness with the U21s after recovering from an ankle injury. He is still expected to depart on loan before the transfer window closes.
Ryan Gravenberch trained after missing the Community Shield for the birth of his daughter. The Dutchman is suspended for Friday’s game, leaving either Curtis Jones or Alexis Mac Allister to partner Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz in midfield.
Conor Bradley remains a doubt for the opener, which should see Jeremie Frimpong start at right-back. Kostas Tsimikas also trained despite ongoing transfer interest, having been left out of the Community Shield squad.
Watch some training pictures from Wednesday’s session [here].
