Thiago finally returns to first-team training after long spell on the sidelines

Thiago Alcantara has officially returned to full first-team training with Liverpool, as the squad gears up to play its first game in front of a packed Anfield crowd in the 2023/24 season this weekend.

On Wednesday afternoon, Thiago Alcantara was thankfully pictured back in Liverpool training for the first time this season, after missing the club's entire pre-season while undergoing rehabilitation for an ongoing hip problem.

The Spaniard originally injured his hip flexor back in February, but despite coming back to first-team action two months later, the return seemingly came too soon, with Thiago again feeling an issue in his hip on April 27th - for which he has been absent with ever since.

Thiago is arguably Liverpool's most gifted midfielder, and when fit, his vast experience, superb tackling ability and excellent passing range are invaluable attributes to Jurgen Klopp, who will naturally be relieved as his chase for midfield reinforcements continues.

Despite not playing a single minute across pre-season, there has been plenty of talk involving Thiago, with Sevilla and a host of Saudi Arabian clubs rumoured to want to secure his services before the transfer window closes.

However, as previously reported, the midfielder remains completely committed to Liverpool and has reportedly turned down several approaches to remain at Anfield this season.

Whether the 32-year-old will train for long enough to rediscover his match fitness and sharpness in time for the Bournemouth game on Saturday remains to be seen, but even having the option to bring on Thiago's wealth of experience from the bench - especially with experienced midfielders in Jordan Henderson, Fabinho and James Milner departing the club - will certainly be a welcomed feeling for Jurgen Klopp.