Liverpool Injury Boost: Iraola Reveals When Gomez and Leoni Could Return
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has provided encouraging updates on the potential return of Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni, with both defenders edging closer to a comeback.
The Reds started the new campaign with several players unavailable. Hugo Ekitike and Conor Bradley are expected to remain sidelined for several more months due to Achilles and knee injuries, while Leoni has been recovering from a serious ACL injury.
However, there is more positive news regarding Gomez and Leoni.
Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League meeting with Ipswich, Iraola revealed that Gomez is the closest player to returning, confirming that the defender is expected to begin team training next week.
«“The closest one is Joe. He will start training with us next week.”»
Iraola also suggested that Leoni could rejoin group training during the upcoming international break, although the young defender is likely to be eased back carefully after such a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Gomez could therefore be in contention for Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Fulham on September 12, or potentially the Carabao Cup meeting with Tottenham Hotspur three days later.
Leoni’s return could take longer, with the club expected to manage his comeback gradually as he rebuilds his fitness and sharpness.
If both defenders return without any further setbacks, Iraola could soon have significantly more options at centre-back, giving Liverpool valuable depth as domestic and European fixtures begin to pile up.
For now, the injury situation at Anfield appears manageable, but Liverpool’s squad depth will face a much bigger test once the demanding three-game weeks arrive.
