Liverpool were given a double boost on Thursday afternoon, as both Kostas Tsimikas and Luis Diaz returned to training.
Obviously, Diaz’s return is the one to have stolen the headlines. The Colombian has been sorely, sorely missed during his five-and-a-half month absence. As one of the best wingers in the world, Liverpool fans will understandably be delighted to see him back.
But they’ll also be pleased to see the return of Tsimikas, who was spotted – as he so often is – laughing and joking with Mohamed Salah.
There weren’t quite so many smiles on Monday evening, as Kostas had to be taken off early into Greece’s game against Lithuania. Although the injury was subsequently reported not to be serious, it was still a worry Liverpool didn’t need.
Thankfully, the ‘Scouse Greek’ looks to have bounced back in time for tomorrow’s clash with City. He’s mightily unlikely to make the XI at the Etihad Stadium, but it’s good to have him available regardless.
Diaz makes it a great day for Liverpool
With all respect to Kostas, this wasn’t the injury update Liverpool fans were keeping their eyes peeled for on Thursday. It was all about Mr Luis Diaz. Truly, it feels like we’ve waited an age to see our No.23 back out on the AXA grass.
Now that he’s recovered from his overly-long period out, we can’t wait to see how he slots back into the side.
Following his signing back in January 2022, the 26-year-old almost instantly improved Liverpool. It might be unfair to expect him to do the same right now after such a lengthy injury. But it would certainly be nice.
At the very least, the prospect of seeing him link up with Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo is a hugely exciting one. The trio should make up the Reds attack for the best part of the next half-decade.
Just before his untimely injury in October, there were signs that Diaz was starting to build an understanding with fellow South American Nunez. More of the same between now and May would be lovely.
As for Kostas, he’s unlikely to have quite the same impact. But it’s been another quietly excellent season for the £11.7m man. Having him fit is only going to be a good thing for Liverpool’s top four hopes.
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