Jurgen Klopp could reportedly hand Luis Diaz only his third Liverpool start of 2023 against Leicester City after the winger’s return from a six-month injury.
According to the Liverpool Echo, the Anfield boss is considering the Colombian international in his starting XI in what is lining up to be a massive Premier League fixture for the Reds, with Klopp keen to fight for UEFA Champions League qualification.
Diaz last started in Liverpool’s 1-0 win against Fulham, with the attacker on the scoresheet in the Merseyside club’s 4-3 victory against Tottenham as the forward begins to regain his fitness having missed the majority of the season out on the treatment table.
The 26-year-old’s absence has been felt hugely this campaign. However, with Diaz now back to full fitness and Liverpool heading to the King Power Stadium with a mostly-full squad, the South American getting the start is a huge sign of trust from Klopp.
Indeed, Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo have impressed in recent weeks with Darwin Nunez also in contention for a starting spot, yet Klopp starting Diaz could be a big indicator of what is likely to come next season in what will be a massive year for Liverpool.
Diaz starting for Liverpool against Leicester could be key in UCL race
Diaz has been one of Liverpool’s best performers when fully fit and firing, and tonight’s performance against Leicester could be crucial in the Reds’ lofty goal of finishing in the top-four, with the winger aware that his quality can make the difference.
The 26-year-old is slowly returning to his best, and with a big game like tonight on the horizon, Diaz knows that his attacking threat could make all the difference in Liverpool claiming another three points and putting more pressure on Newcastle United and Manchester United.
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