Liverpool star Fabinho nears return from injury – could face Man United

Liverpool midfielder Fabinho is nearing a return to full fitness. The defensive midfielder could feature as early as the weekend’s clash against arch-rivals Manchester United. (h/t Liverpool Echo)

The news backs up manager Jurgen Klopp’s statement regarding the player prior to the game against Tottenham. (h/t Liverpool FC

The 26-year-old had been sidelined for almost 2 months after he sustained an ankle injury in the UEFA Champions League fixture against Napoli in November.

The midfielder has stepped up his recovery and is training alone again.

“My ankle is better, I trained alone this week,” he said.

“I am touching the ball again, I feel good and I feel confident.”

A crucial member of the first-team, Fabinho has started 18 games and has scored 1 goal and 2 assists this season. (h/t Whoscored

It was initially feared that the injury would keep him out for three months. His early return will come as welcome news to Klopp, with the Champions League fixtures back in next month.

Liverpool were expected to struggle in the midfielder’s absence, but captain Jordan Henderson has stepped up brilliantly and performed in the dominant Brazilian’s stead, as a relentless Reds side gave no quarter.

With the 26-year-old now returning to the fold, Liverpool will be better equipped to navigate through a busy month with minimum fuss.

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Fabinho joined Liverpool in the summer of 2018 following the Reds’ loss to Real Madrid in the Champions League final. Although he struggled at first, he eventually established himself as a key player in the Liverpool midfield as the Reds won their 6th European Cup last season.