Dominik Szoboszlai provided insights into his recovery following a hamstring injury and subtly hinted at a potential return timeline for Liverpool.
Updating on his recovery progress, Szoboszlai shared details on his injury situation and offered a glimpse into his anticipated return to action with Liverpool.
Notably, the midfielder has missed the past two matches for the Reds due to a hamstring injury sustained in the game against Newcastle on New Year’s Day.
Despite the setback, the injury was initially perceived as not too severe, leading to expectations of a brief absence from the field. Presently, Szoboszlai has been absent for two matches, one in each of the domestic cup competitions.
As Liverpool enter a short winter break, there’s optimism for Szoboszlai’s return when the Reds resume play on January 21 against Bournemouth. While the Hungarian aims to return, he has also tempered expectations, acknowledging the uncertainty.
“I am still running without a ball, but soon I will be able to carefully try training with a ball,” he told Nemzeti Sport. “I am getting better.
“Yes, it’s possible (that I will return against Bournemouth), but we don’t want to rush anything. I’d rather miss one more match, if that’s what it takes, so that I don’t injure the previous strain and can play continuously.”
Szoboszlai shared his perspective on the possibility of stepping in for Mohamed Salah during his absence at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The 23-year-old, who previously operated on the right wing at RB Leipzig, also assumed that role for Liverpool in a previous Carabao Cup match this season.
“If the question is whether I will play on the wing, my answer is that it is not ruled out, and I play where I am needed,” he said. “We haven’t talked yet about how my task might change in Mohamed Salah’s absence, and for now the important thing is that I can play as soon as possible.”
It’s encouraging to learn that Szoboszlai is nearing a return to full training. The brief hiatus, ideally, should afford him ample time to regain fitness for the upcoming journey to Bournemouth. Should he not make it in time, we can trust Jürgen Klopp to seamlessly manage without him.
Regarding the prospect of Szoboszlai substituting for Salah, this alternative should only be considered if absolutely essential.
Szoboszlai’s exceptional pressing abilities in midfield might be compromised on the wing. Moreover, based on recent performances, Luis Díaz appears to be the most suitable choice on the right. Let’s maintain Szoboszlai in the midfield if possible.
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