Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that Joe Gomez and James Milner are back to full fitness in time for the Chelsea FA Cup clash.
Both players missed the Reds’ disappointing 3-0 defeat to Watford at Vicarage Road due to injuries but the manager has confirmed that they are back.
As quoted by Liverpool’s official website, Klopp told reporters: “No new ones , I think. Joe and Millie are back. The others aren’t.”
Since Tuesday night is an FA Cup encounter, Klopp could bench some of the regulars. However, given that the match is against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, some senior players could feature and Joe Gomez and James Milner’s return could be a massive boost for Liverpool.
The former has become an integral part of the team now, forging a fine partnership with Virgil van Dijk in the heart of defence. Milner hasn’t been much of a regular this season but has amassed four goals and as many assists in 30 appearances across all competitions so far. Having an experienced player and a character like him on the field is always helpful.
His leadership will be vital in a big game like this and it’s something that side has missed since Jordan Henderson limped out of the Atletico game.
Tonight’s match will be the 11th time Liverpool will play Chelsea in the FA Cup with the latter currently leading the head-to-head 6-4. Klopp may not field his strongest XI today but the likes Gomez and Milner could well feature.
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There is likely to be a fair amount of rotation and you can see youngsters like Harvey Elliott, who recently confirmed news that he’d signed a new three-year-deal, Curits Jones and Pedro Chirivella being handed a chance to impress.
After losing Invincible ambitions, it’ll be interesting to see how Klopp will prioritise the cup. Liverpool are still in with a chance of winning the most impressive treble in Premier League history, and now all eyes will be on that.