Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo Returns to Training Ahead of PSG Clash | OneFootball

Cody Gakpo Back in Liverpool Training Ahead of PSG Clash

Liverpool received a timely boost as Cody Gakpo returned to training ahead of their crucial Champions League second-leg tie against Paris Saint-Germain. The Dutch forward was spotted at the club’s AXA Training Centre on Monday, raising hopes of his availability for the upcoming fixture.

Key Return for Liverpool’s Attack

Gakpo’s absence in recent weeks has been noticeable, with the forward missing four of Liverpool’s last six matches in all competitions. He sat out games against Wolves and Aston Villa but managed short substitute appearances in wins over Manchester City and Newcastle. However, he was not involved in training before the first-leg clash in Paris, resulting in his omission from the squad that night.

Saturday’s victory over Southampton also went ahead without him, as Liverpool edged closer to securing the Premier League title. A brace from Mohamed Salah and a goal from Darwin Núñez sealed the win, but Gakpo’s absence remained a concern.

Arne Slot’s Update on Gakpo’s Fitness

Before the Southampton match, head coach Arne Slot provided an update on Gakpo’s condition, saying:

“He didn’t train yesterday yet, so let’s see if he can train with us today [Friday]. Again, [a] close call it will probably be. It’s not a long-term injury but he still had a bit of pain yesterday so he was not able to train. Let’s see where he is today, so I can’t give you the answer yet.”

This uncertainty surrounded his availability, but his participation in Monday’s open training session suggests he is edging closer to a return.

Positive Signs Before PSG and Carabao Cup Final

Seeing Gakpo back in training will be a relief for Liverpool as they prepare for a defining week. His potential inclusion against PSG would bolster the attacking options as they look to overturn their first-leg deficit. Beyond that, Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Newcastle could also see him play a key role.

Meanwhile, there were no fresh injury concerns from the session. Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez remain unavailable, but otherwise, Liverpool’s squad appears in good shape for the challenges ahead.