Jurgen Klopp has discussed a potential change in role for Trent Alexander-Arnold at Liverpool and has called Luis Diaz’s return a ‘breath of fresh air’.
Liverpool travel to face Leeds in the Premier League on Monday night as the Reds look to end a four-game winless run and reignite their push for European football.
The Reds fought back from two goals down to draw with Arsenal last weekend, carving out a large number of chances during the second half against the Premier League leaders.
Trent Alexander-Arnold was used in a new-look role against the Gunners, as the right-back – whose defensive work has been criticised this season – moved into midfield when Liverpool were in possession.
Klopp admits it is a tactic that he is considering moving forward as the Liverpool manager looks to bring the best from Alexander-Arnold’s ability on the ball.
“We [changed it] before. It is a possibility for us,” he told his pre-match press conference.
“We’ll have to see. It was different to other times, but it suited him; we’ll have to see for other games and it is possible sometimes we’ll do it and sometimes not. Trent was super dominant with the ball in the second half.”
Klopp confirmed that Luis Diaz will return to the Liverpool squad at Leeds, with the Colombian having endured a frustrating season with fitness issues. Diaz has not featured in the Premier League since October and Klopp admits the winger’s return is a ‘breath of fresh air’ for his squad.
“He is 100% ready and training; now we have to reintegrate him. He will be in the squad if nothing happens.
“Yes, absolutely [it is like having a new player]. He is settled, his English is getting better, he has matured and is much more comfortable with everything. We are happy to have him back; he is a breath of fresh air. He can’t train without a smile on his face. We have to see how we can bring him back step by step.”
Liverpool will take on a Leeds side battling to survive in the Premier League this season. Javi Gracia’s side were thrashed 5-1 by Crystal Palace last weekend, but Klopp is anticipating a ‘massive fight’ as the struggling side look to respond at Elland Road.
“Big fight, massive fight in their situation. The last game [against Crystal Palace], they got a proper knock. These things can happen, because Roy [Hodgson] is back. Palace are a really good team; it was a tough one.
“We expect them to be on their toes, proper atmosphere. We have to build on two games with good moments. We will try to do that. We have nothing to lose, we have to try new things; everything is on the table. I’m looking forward to the game. Leeds will go with all they have. It will never be an easy game.”
