Klopp can’t put timescale on Alisson return; Keita boost

Jurgen Klopp admits he still does not know when first-choice keeper Alisson Becker will be available.

The Brazilian, who played a major role in the Reds’ success last term, injured his calf in Liverpool’s first Premier League game of the season against Norwich last month.

Klopp remains hopeful he could return after next month’s international break, but told a press conference on Friday: “He’s improving but we cannot put any pressure on it.

“It was a really serious injury in the calf and it’s now much better. That’s good for us and good for him but we don’t know exactly.

“The target was always after the next international break he could be ready but we don’t know. Hopefully everything will be fine for the rest of the season, that’s the plan.”

Klopp, though, is hopeful midfielder Naby Keita will soon be available. He has not played since the Community Shield because of a hip/groin injury.

“Naby is close,” said the Reds boss. “He could be in training when we come back from Napoli next week.”

Liverpool will aim to continue their flawless start to the Premier League season when they face Newcastle at Anfield on Saturday. Victory would make it 14 league victories in a row across two seasons.

Asked about his side’s togtherness, he said: To win [CL] we didn’t change a lot of things. We had to talk about it but that is part of winning something. The boys are still the same, a good bunch of footballers and they will show it again tomorrow. Newcastle will fight like crazy.

“If you want to ask about Newcastle, I will answer. They did a lot of really good stuff against Tottenham. The last home game was Arsenal and we needed the atmosphere. Another one at 12.30 and we can do something.

“We have to make sure we have a wonderful atmosphere in the group. We work hard for that and we try to keep that. We just try to improve all the time.

“This club is wonderful and it’s just the atmosphere hasn’t always been like this. The players like each other a lot.”