Liverpool have been continuing their preparations for Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Goodison.
The Premier League and world champion s find themselves in the unusual position of trailing Everton in the table with their neighbours three points clear at the top with a 100% record after four games.
Liverpool haven’t lost against the Blues in more than a decade and have kept clean sheets in all four previous Goodison visits under Jurgen Klopp.
And while several Reds players remain on international duty, a significant number of potential derby starters have been working at Melwood this week.
Thiago and Mane send message
There’s no doubt the coronavirus pandemic will disrupt the plans of Liverpool – and every other Premier League team – for months to come.
The Reds had to do without Thiago Alcantara and Sadio Mane in recent games with the pair self-isolating following positive tests.
However, they were back at Melwood this week. And footage released by the Reds has shown Thiago in particular keen to make up for lost time, not least with a cracking long-range right-foot finish during one training match and clips showing his array of passing and ball control skills.
Both Thiago and Mane will be keen to prove their health and fitness is sufficient for a derby start.
Salah in the mood
Mohamed Salah’s introduction to the Merseyside derby was so impressive it earned him a global accolade.
But having scooped the Puskas Award for his strike in the 1-1 Anfield draw in December 2017, the Egyptian has featured in just two games against Everton and none since March 2019.
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With his country not in action during the international break, Salah was afforded a short breather before returning to training.
And given the speed at which he was operating at Melwood, it appears he is in the mood to maintain a start to the season that has seen him net five goals in four Premier League games.
Phillips on the move
While the return of Joel Matip gave cause for encouragement among Liverpool supporters, he wasn’t the only centre-back returning from injury.
Nathaniel Phillips was in full training having been sidelined for several weeks, scuppering plans of a move before the transfer deadline earlier this month.
However, the window remains open for a possible loan move or even permanent departure from Anfield.
And the ECHO understands there is plenty of interest in the defender, who is almost certain to be heading for pastures new in the coming days.
New signing makes mark
With Alisson Becker sidelined, the goalkeeping situation has become one of intrigue for Liverpool.
Adrian remains the next in line, and was put through his paces alongside Caoimhin Kelleher, who was on the bench at Villa Park.
And while the Reds won’t strengthen their options between the sticks ahead of Friday’s deadline, there was one new boy on show at Melwood.
Marcelo Pitaluga, the 17-year-old Brazilian snapped up last week from Fluminese, joined in the regular first-team goalkeeping group and drew plaudits from the coaching staff with one fine stop. A decent welcome.
