Jurgen Klopp believes the fit-again Naby Keita is ready to make his mark on Liverpool's season following a frustrating run with injuries.
The midfielder returned from a hip problem in last week's EFL Cup win at MK Dons, completing just over an hour of the 2-0 victory.
It was his first involvement in a matchday squad since a Premier League opener against Norwich City on August 9 but the Guinea international did not travel to Bramall Lane for Saturday's win over Sheffield United.
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Reds boss Klopp confirmed Keita's absence was designed to prepare him for this week's two games, beginning with a Champions League clash against his former side Salzburg on Wednesday.