FeatureCongratulations, Ibou the barista and more - five things spotted at training on Friday
Welcoming our newest Red…
Since we were last at the AXA Training Centre before the international break, Curtis Jones has proudly become a father.
Giselle Delilah Jones entered the world on Sunday.
And there was a little gift waiting for dad to collect before continuing preparations for this weekend’s game.
“It’s amazing, man,” the midfielder told Liverpoolfc.com in an interview you will be able to read in full on Saturday. “It’s the best feeling that I’ve ever had. The baby’s well, my girlfriend’s well. I’m really happy.”
And more congratulations in order…
As the squad reconvened in Kirkby, there was more personal news to acknowledge.
Having netted twice for Hungary on Monday night, Dominik Szoboszlai revealed on social media this week that he is now engaged to be married.
And his club-mates were quick to note the midfielder’s life moment.
“Congratulations, brother!” beamed Cody Gakpo, while Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah opted for cries of “She said yes!”
Ibou the barista…?
At age 25, Ibrahima Konate is a fair way off needing to consider an alternative career.
But perhaps there’s a future for the centre-back in creating the perfect hot drink, given he was keenly receiving tips from the professionals at the training centre’s coffee bar before heading out to the pitch.
Just don’t ask him for a peppermint tea, it seems.
Back in the mix…
“We’ve got quite some issues from players coming back from the national teams,” head coach Slot had explained at his 9am pre-match press conference.
“And we can only judge that perfectly today because today is the first time that they are all in and the first time that they are all training together again. So, let’s see after the session where everybody is.”
It appears Wataru Endo is certainly in contention for the visit of the Blues, though.
The No.3 was in high spirits during the day’s activities having recovered from an illness during the international break with Japan.
Chuck’s chance…
James Norris, a hugely consistent and versatile performer with the Reds’ U21s, was called up to the senior group for their latest workout.
The 21-year-old – nicknamed ‘Chuck’ in Kirkby – is nominally a left-back but can also play in midfield and in a more advanced attacking position when called upon.
An opportunity to impress Slot and his staff comes after a strong personal beginning to 2024-25 that has included nine starts and two goals for Barry Lewtas’ U21s.
Back with the club after a loan spell at Tranmere Rovers last term, Norris actually debuted for Liverpool at senior level way back in December 2019.