Lucas, who has been out of action since the middle of January, confirmed via his Twitter account that he’ll be playing with the reserves as he makes a comeback from a knee injury he picked up in the 2-2 draw with Aston Villa. Joe Allen has done well to deputize in the Brazilian’s absence when given a chance, but it’s expected that experience will trump promise when Brendan Rodgers side face off against the Champions later this month, restoring Lucas to the starting eleven immediately.
Another player that could find himself in the starting line-up when the Reds visit Old Trafford is Mamadou Sakho who also confirmed via his Twitter account that he’ll be running out with the reserves. The French defender has been out of action with a hamstring problem after pulling up in the closing stages of the 2-1 loss to Chelsea at the end of December. Liverpool’s backline has come in for criticism with the Anfield outfit shipping goals at an alarming rate and Rodgers could look to Sakho to help stop of the rot.
Should both players come through the meeting with the West Ham United u21’s later today without any problems – or looking too rusty — they’re expected to return to full training with the first team on Tuesday. With ten matches left to play, Liverpool look well placed to finish the season strong – and the return of this duo will only strengthen their case for a spot in next seasons Champions League.
