Liverpool's Alisson Won't Be Rushed Back, Says Boss Arne Slot

Liverpool manager Arne Slot says the club won't rush goalkeeper Alisson back from injury as the festive fixture schedule begins.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that the club's first-choice goalkeeper, Alisson, will not be rushed back into action as he recovers from a hamstring injury. The Brazilian has been sidelined since early October, but his absence has been mitigated by the impressive form of understudy Caoimhin Kelleher.

Ahead of Liverpool's midweek Premier League clash at Newcastle United, Slot emphasized the importance of not rushing Alisson's return. The manager's cautious approach is likely driven by the desire to ensure Alisson is fully fit and ready to contribute to the team's title push.

“I think I have been clear a few weeks ago about what my position is about our goalkeepers, but we are just waiting for Alisson to be completely fit because Caoimhin is doing too well to put Alisson on goal if he's only 50%,” Slot told reporters.

“That would not be good for Alisson and it would not be good for the team. He's getting there, it might take a few more extra days, but he's getting closer.

“Like I've always said, the end phase of a rehab is always the period where you feel like 'okay, is he there or does he need extra days?' But he will be in goal before the end of December if things continue like they are now.”

Caoimhin Kelleher, Ireland's goalkeeper, has been impressive in Alisson's absence, making 11 appearances in all competitions this season. Notably, he has kept four clean sheets in his last five games, including against formidable opponents Real Madrid and Manchester City.

Liverpool will travel to Newcastle on Wednesday, boasting a commanding nine-point lead in the Premier League. Their advantage over reigning champions Manchester City stands at 11 points, following their victory over City on Sunday. Manager Arne Slot acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, saying: “We know we have a difficult week coming up again and as we thought, Real Madrid and Man City were difficult to face. I think it's even harder to go to Newcastle away as well.”

Liverpool manager Arne Slot remains cautious despite his team's impressive lead in the Premier League. When asked about their current position, Slot acknowledged, “We're not even halfway through the season yet, but it's a good position to be in. That's definitely true.”

Slot was also questioned about the future of star forward Mohamed Salah, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season. Salah had sparked speculation about his future after Liverpool's win over Manchester City, suggesting it might have been his last home game against them. Slot's response to the inquiry did not provide any clarity on Salah's contract situation.

“Maybe Mo knows more about the 115 accusations for (Man City) not to be in the Premier League next season and I do expect them in the Premier League next season,” Slot said.

“The boring answer is always the same. This is not the place for me to talk about Salah's contract and maybe already, I've said too much about the joke I just made. That will probably get the headlines. It was a joke. I repeat, it was a joke.”