Liverpool handed timely fitness boost as 2 key players return to training after long injury absence: Reports

Liverpool have reportedly been handed a timely fitness boost as Federico Chiesa and Diogo Jota have returned to training with the Liverpool squad. Both players have been out of action with a muscle and rib injury, respectively.

Chiesa has not played since late September. The Italian winger has been limited to just three appearances across competitions since his move to Anfield from Juventus in the summer. He last featured for the Reds in their 5-1 EFL Cup third-round victory over West Ham United on September 25 in which he recorded an assist.

Jota, meanwhile, last featured in the side's 2-1 Premier League victory over Chelsea on October 20. The Portuguese forward started the match but was taken off in the 30th minute after picking a knock. Prior to his injury, the 28-year-old contributed four goals and two assists in 10 games for Arne Slot's side.

According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano on X, both players have now returned to training with the squad.

It is unlikely that both players will be on the team list for the club's next game which is against Fulham at Anfield on Saturday, December 14. However, they could be back in contention in the upcoming weeks.

Liverpool will look to continue in their brilliant form when they take on the Cottagers. They were forced to sit out of action last weekend after the Merseyside derby with Everton was postponed due to weather concerns.

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Liverpool learn new date for Merseyside derby with Everton

Arne Slot's side were not in league action last weekend. Their week 15 Merseyside derby showdown with neighbors Everton at Goodison Park was postponed for safety concerns due to Storm Darragh.

According to the Mirror, the rescheduled clash at Goodison Park will now take place on Tuesday, February 11. The rescheduled fixture will be played five days before the Reds play Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield on February 16.

In the meantime, they will focus on maintaining their lead on the Premier League table when they face Fulham at home this Saturday. Liverpool have a four-point lead at the summit having played a game less than second-place Chelsea.

They will face Tottenham Hotspur (December 22), Leicester City (December 26), and West Ham United (December 29) in the league in a busy December. Slot's side also have an EFL Cup quarter-final clash with Southampton on December 18.