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Kelleher starting spot in doubt as Alisson trains fully

Caomhín Kelleher's latest run in the Liverpool starting XI could be coming to an end with the return from injury of Alisson Becker.

Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and Alisson were both involved in full training ahead of their Champions League trip to Girona.

Jota has not played since sustaining a chest injury against Chelsea on 20 October, missing 10 matches, while Alisson sustained a hamstring injury five days before that at Crystal Palace, and has been slowly edging his way back to fitness.

Both were present for opening training ahead of the squad's departure for Spain, giving head coach Arne Slot a boost ahead of the busy festive schedule to come.

The return of Becker may not be welcome news for Ireland international Kelleher, who has been enjoying lining out as Liverpool's number one choice since the Brazilian's injury woes almost two months ago.

Alisson Becker leaves the pitch following hamstring injury against Crystal Palace

Kelleher hasn't been shy about his desire to be a number-one keeper, but has had several opportunities to be top pick for the Reds when Alisson is injured, including a two-month stint last season.

Arne Slot has stated openly the pecking order of his keepers, but has praised Kelleher's form, which has meant Becker hasn't been rushed back.

Forward Federico Chiesa, whose own fitness struggles have limited him to three appearances since joining late in the summer, was not present at training due to illness.

Chiesa, a €12m signing from Juventus during the summer, scored for the Under-21s last week as he stepped up his recovery.

Slot is still without defenders Ibrahima Konate, Conor Bradley and Kostas Tsimikas, who are all likely to be out until the new year.

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