Diogo Jota's back! Liverpool get injury boost ahead of Everton clash but sweat on Thiago Alcantara's fitness

• Jota out since October with calf problem
• Set to be named in squad against Everton
• Firmino & Arthur also close, Van Dijk nearing return

WHAT HAPPENED? The Portugal international has not been seen since suffering a calf injury in the win over Manchester City in October, but has rejoined team training at Kirkby this week, and providing there is no adverse reaction, he should be named in the squad for Monday night's derby clash at Anfield. Roberto Firmino (calf) and Arthur Melo (thigh) are also back in training, and have an outside chance of featuring against Everton, but Virgil van Dijk (hamstring) is unlikely to be ready, with next weekend's trip to Newcastle a more realistic target for his return.

WHAT THEY SAID: Klopp told reporters: "Diogo is closest. He trains normally now for a couple of days, so in another three days, it is possible for him to be in contention.

"Bobby is the next one. We have to see how that is with training. Arthur is similar. Virgil is closer, all good, but I don't think it will be possible [for the Everton game]."

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Despite the positive news around four of their current absentees, Liverpool have a fresh concern in the form of Thiago Alcantara. When asked about the player by GOAL, Klopp revealed he had been unable to train this week. "Thiago has some problems. I know the problem but I have to ask if I am allowed to say about it! Hip flexor, stuff like this. So he was not able to train."

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WHAT NEXT FOR LIVERPOOL? The Reds will be looking to get their season back on track when they entertain Everton in the Merseyside derby at Anfield on Monday (20:00 GMT).