Liverpool handed double fitness boost as Spurs loom

Liverpool needed a lift after that sobering league loss to Wolves, and it sounds like they’ve got one. As Tottenham roll into town on Sunday, Arne Slot has delivered the sort of news every Red wants to hear: Alisson Becker could be back between the sticks, and Federico Chiesa is on the mend as well. It’s a double dose of good vibes before a huge test at Anfield.

Alisson closing in on a return

The Brazilian no.1 missed the midweek Champions League trip to Galatasaray after feeling a minor issue when striking a pass in training. Slot’s assessment is upbeat: the problem was only slight, the schedule was relentless, and that’s why he sat out Istanbul. Now he’s expected to rejoin full training and has a real shot at facing Spurs on Sunday. If the medical team decides not to rush him, the expectation is he’ll be ready for the next European night in midweek.

Giorgi Mamardashvili deputised in Turkey and did his bit, but let’s be honest — having Alisson back settles the whole back line. He missed over a month earlier in the season with a hamstring issue; Liverpool don’t want to flirt with another setback, but if he’s cleared, he plays. Simple as that.

Chiesa illness clears — a different option for Slot

Chiesa sat out the defeat in Istanbul due to illness, yet he’s also expected back in training today. Minutes have been painfully limited for the Italy international — just five starts in all competitions and only a single Premier League start so far this campaign, that 2-1 win over Wolves in December. Still, his direct running and eye for a gap give Slot something different off the left or tucked inside. Against a Spurs side that loves to squeeze the pitch, that injection of pace and aggression could be priceless.

Isak still sidelined as rehab continues

There’s less cheer on Alexander Isak. The Swede, a £125m British-record arrival from Newcastle last summer, remains with the rehab staff as he continues to recover from the lower-leg issue he suffered in December. The internal view is that he’ll be back after this month’s international break rather than for Spurs. In his absence, Hugo Ekitike has carried the load but has gone a bit cold — three goals in his last nine league outings. He works, he stretches the line, but Liverpool need a ruthless edge in the box.

What it means for Spurs on Sunday

If Alisson is declared fit, Liverpool’s high line will breathe easier, and the whole team tends to play 10 yards braver. Chiesa’s return expands Slot’s options, especially late on when legs tire and spaces open. Tottenham will press and probe as they do, but Anfield under the lights of a big league fixture is a different animal. Liverpool sit sixth, level on points with fifth-placed Chelsea — it’s the sort of afternoon that can flip momentum with a statement win.

Odds could swing if Alisson and Chiesa are passed fit — if you’re keeping an eye on prices and markets, check the latest across the top betting sites uk before team news lands.

Konate whispers add to the mood

There’s also a positive murmur around Ibrahima Konate’s future at the club. Details are light for now, but even a hint of stability at the back only adds to the optimistic tone around the place.

Bottom line? Spurs are no soft touch, but with Alisson potentially back and Chiesa itching to contribute, Liverpool look far better equipped to put that Wolves defeat behind them and make a proper push up the table.