London: Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker is back in full training and nearing a return to competitive action after six weeks out with a calf injury.
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The Brazilian No. 1 was carried off in Liverpool’s 4-1 victory over Norwich on the opening night of the Premier League season on August 9.
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“I’m on a good way, I think we are nearly there,” he told the Liverpool website.
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“I can go outside to the pitch to do some goalkeeper work and I feel very well.
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“I feel confident and I think now it’s just about getting all my power, all my confidence to come back and do what I love to do.”
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Alisson was named men’s goalkeeper of the year at Fifa’s annual awards ceremony in Milan on Monday for his role in helping Liverpool win the Champions League last season.
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Even without the inspirational goalkeeper, the Reds have also made a brilliant start in their quest to end a 30-year wait to win the Premier League, winning all six of their opening games to take a five-point lead over Manchester City.
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Stand-in keeper Adrian, who only joined the club four days before the Norwich game, has overcome an uncertain start and was pivotal to a 2-1 win at Chelsea on Sunday.
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And Alisson admitted the Spaniard’s form has allowed him not to rush his recovery.
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“I think the boys are doing very well, all the team (and) Adrian especially,” he added.
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“He’s a special guy who came late in the season, he just came and shows everyone his value, not just as a player but as a person and that is the more important thing.
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“He is doing very well on the pitch. I have peace to recover in a proper way so it’s better for everyone.”
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Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has hinted Alisson may not return until after the October international break, but the 26-year-old is desperate to get back on the field and play his part in the push for the title.
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“If I look back, two weeks ago I couldn’t even walk properly. Now I’m running, jumping on my right leg that was injured so I’m really happy for that,” he said.
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“The games, the atmosphere at Anfield, the away games, all games when I watch on the TV, I just think how I want to play, I want to be there, I want to help my teammates. I’m looking forward (to being back), I can’t wait any more!”
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