Is Alisson available to face Everton? Liverpool boss Arne Slot reveals if goalkeeper is finally ready to return & replace Caoimhin Kelleher after injury layoff

The Brazilian has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since early October but backup stopper Caoimhin Kelleher has impressed for Premier League leaders Liverpool in his absence. Ahead of Saturday's trip to bitter rivals Everton, Reds manager Slot has issued an update on the 32-year-old's condition.

The former Feyenoord boss told reporters on Friday: "Alisson is not ready yet, but [he will be] very soon."

On the Everton game, he added: "I think it is going to be special for everyone involved, the fans, players, managers. To be involved in this game is special and the last one at Goodison is even more. Only nice when you have the result though so that is what we’re focusing on. I never speak about points before a game, especially a team like Everton in recent games, three clean sheets, very good win at Wolves. We have to be ready for a tough game, well managed side and the fans will be just as loud as Newcastle, maybe even louder. We have to be prepared."

Many would have feared the worst when Alisson got injured two months ago but Kelleher's performances in between the sticks have, mostly, allayed Liverpool fans' concerns following a string of eye-catching performances. The Republic of Ireland international did, however, receive some stick for his part in Newcastle's third goal last time out, with Kelleher electing to leave a deep cross that would eventually lead to Fabian Schar sliding home into an empty net.

Kelleher will start in goal for Liverpool for their trip to Goodison Park this weekend. After his mistake in the 3-3 draw at Newcastle United in midweek, he will want to put in a commanding performance, with Alisson now closing in on a return to action.