Club News:
Adam Lallana’s return to action for the Liverpool U23’s was an eventful one after the midfielder got sent off. Lallana seemed to have grabbed a Tottenham player by the neck after he was fouled.
Although his suspension won’t affect him for the Premier League, it isn’t something Jurgen Klopp would want to see. The England international is pivotal for Klopp’s squad this season following Coutinho’s departure with no replacement brought in.
Liverpool have also announced the signing of Colombia U20’s Anderson Arroyo from Fortaleza CEIF. Arroyo was unable to obtain a work permit, therefore, he was sent out to Spanish side Real Mallorca on a 18-month loan. He will remain with the Segunda B side until the summer of 2019.
Winter Break:
Jurgen Klopp’s wishes of a winter break may soon be coming. In 2015, Klopp spoke about plans for a potential winter break as it can affect the performances of his players. “You have too many games, that’s for sure. You have no break, too many tournaments.”
A potential winter break could take place in January although any deal would have to come in 2019 when the Premier League negotiates a new TV deal.
Van Dijk Returns to Southampton:
On Sunday, £75m defender Virgil Van Dijk will return to his former side as Liverpool face Southampton. His huge price tag means Van Dijk will face scrutiny with each performance, something that doesn’t affect the defender. “I am enjoying training every day and every bit of it, training and playing with these guys and working with the manager. I am enjoying every bit of what the fans are doing for me – always supporting me.”
With his return to Southampton, Van Dijk is expecting a lot of boos from the home side. What can you do? Maybe they can boo the whole game. What can you do about it? You can’t do anything about it. I made the decision, I have enjoyed every bit of it and I am very grateful for everything that they (Southampton) did for me.”
Youngsters:
Liverpool U23’s lost to Tottenham on Monday in a game that saw Adam Lallana sent off. Liverpool remain top of the table and lead Arsenal by just a point. Their next game is against Bristol City in the Premier League cup.