Thiago Alcantara and Joel Matip both returned to first-team training at Liverpool on Thursday.

Both players have spent time on the sidelines since the start of the season, particularly Thiago, who has not featured since the Merseyside derby with Everton on October 17.

While the summer arrival has been sidelined with a knee injury, Matip's latest fitness issue occurred on Sunday when he suffered a back spasm against Fulham.

However, as reported in the Liverpool Echo, both players were present when the senior squad took to the training pitch on Thursday.

Providing that he proves his fitness ahead of Saturday's fixture against Crystal Palace, Matip is expected to featured in the 18-man group.

Meanwhile, no risks will be taken on Thiago, who may have to wait until the showdown with West Bromwich Albion on December 27 to make his return.

Written by
Darren Plant