Liverpool expect Wataru Endo to be back available before the end of this season.
Endo is continuing to work his way back from an ankle injury sustained during February’s win over Sunderland which appeared to spell the end for his campaign.
The Japan international underwent surgery and was expected to miss out on the World Cup with Arne Slot initially forecasting he would be out for ‘a long, long time’.
However the Reds’ head coach confirmed that Endo is already edging towards a potential return with the final weeks of the season currently being targeted.
“Wata is starting to go out, not with the team yet, but starting to do exercises outside on the pitch with the rehab team,” said Slot.
“He’s making steps, but he will not be available next week for [Manchester] United or the week after.
“But we are hoping and expecting him to be back in the end of the season.”