Liverpool Boost Hopes For West Ham Clash As Alisson Nears Return After Concussion Scare

Liverpool’s Champions League ambitions and domestic charge have received a timely boost as reports indicate Alisson Becker is close to returning from concussion, possibly featuring in Sunday’s pivotal Premier League tie against West Ham United. With only two players remaining sidelined, this fitness update injects renewed optimism into their crucial season run-in.

After missing two consecutive matches – defeats to Fulham and a Merseyside derby victory over Everton – Alisson’s absence had stirred concerns among supporters and pundits alike. His leadership and shot-stopping prowess form the backbone of Liverpool’s defensive solidity. The Brazilian’s injury stemmed from a collision on international duty last month which triggered strict concussion protocols, mandating a cautious, phased rehabilitation over at least 21 days.

Encouragingly, both team sources and head coach Arne Slot have voiced optimism for his imminent comeback. As Slot told BBC Sport after Craven Cottage, "He wants it a lot, but the protocol is the protocol." Liverpool, adhering rigorously to FA’s safety guidelines, refused to rush him despite his eagerness. Now, Sunday will mark 22 days since the incident, perfectly aligning with medical recommendations, thus fuelling expectations he could reclaim his spot against the struggling Hammers.

Sources close to the club reveal Alisson resumed normal training activities shortly after returning to Merseyside. Spotted participating in indoor and outdoor drills alongside his teammates, he appears not to have lost physical conditioning, a stark contrast with his previous injury layoffs. This smooth reintegration was evident during the squad’s midweek session at AXA Training Centre, where 24 players trained with intensity ahead of the weekend challenge.

Alongside this promising update, Liverpool’s injury list is notably shrinking. Conor Bradley made his playing return last week following a seven-match absence, immediately bolstering flank options. As it stands, only dynamic right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold – nursing an ankle problem that forced him to miss three games – and seasoned defender Joe Gomez, recovering from hamstring surgery which sidelined him since December, remain on the sidelines. Encouragingly, both are on track to return before campaign’s end, with Alexander-Arnold targeting later this month.

This relative squad health arrives at an opportune juncture, with Slot managing seven intense fixtures over the next six weeks. The Reds lie tantalisingly close to another league crown, possibly trimming an already narrow gap by overcoming West Ham. Arsenal’s Saturday clash with Brentford could sway the equation further, but Liverpool’s focus remains squarely on controlling their destiny.

In contrast, West Ham arrive limping, sitting 16th with just a single victory from their last five league outings, that one against Leicester in February. Facing a near full-strength Reds side at Anfield may prove daunting for the Hammers as Liverpool push to capitalise on every remaining fixture. Slot is expected to confirm final squad details at Friday’s press conference, where all eyes will be on Alisson’s official clearance.

Ultimately, this comeback spells more than just lineup stability; it is symbolic of Liverpool’s resolve to finish the campaign with resilience. As fans count down to kickoff, questions linger — can Alisson’s safe return galvanise their pursuit of silverware? Will Trent and Gomez’s recoveries further fortify the squad’s depth at the perfect moment? Share your perspectives below and join the conversation around Liverpool’s decisive months ahead!

• Alisson Becker
• Arne Slot
• West Ham United