Jurgen Klopp has been handed an injury boost, with Fabinho reportedly returning to light training this week as Liverpool enjoy some warm weather training in Dubai.
The Brazilian limped off with a hamstring injury during the Reds' dramatic 4-3 win over Crystal Palace last week. Initially the Liverpool camp believed the injury might have been a serious one. However, he appears to have made a speedy recovery.
As reported by The Mirror, Fabinho has returned to 'light training' with the Liverpool medical staff 'extremely hopeful' the ex-Monaco man will be able to take part when the Reds host Leicester in the Premier League next Wednesday.
After completing a rehab session in Dubai, it looks increasingly likely he will be available for 30 January, and Liverpool will be desperate for his services amidst an injury crisis in their defence.
First choice right-back Trent Alexander Arnold is expected to be ruled out for three weeks after picking up a knee injury in the recent win against Brighton.
Joe Gomez is also out as he recovers from a broken leg suffered in December, while utility man James Milner is suspended. Even youngster Ki-jana Hoever - who made his debut against Wolves in the FA Cup - is sidelined, leaving the Reds without a recognised defender on the right side of defence.
Big news for #LFC as Fabinho returns to training ground with medics confident he will be fit for next PL game to resolve right back nightmare
— David Maddock (@MaddockMirror) January 23, 2019
https://t.co/F8Ai7ckyvc
Despite being utilised in midfield for much of the season, Fabinho has experience as a right-back, having played there for Monaco and with the Brazil national team. The Mirror's report notes that he helped the French side to the Champions League semi-final in 2017 whilst mostly being deployed in defence.
Klopp will be extremely hopeful his £44m signing will be able to take part against Leicester nnext week, as the Reds look to continue their charge towards their first top flight title in 29 years.
Source : 90min