Midfielder Injury Boost For Liverpool

Liverpool have received a double injury boost with the news that Joe Cole and Oussama Assaidi are close to returning to first team action.

Former England winger Cole was hoping to resurrect his Liverpool career after spending last season on loan in France with Lille.

However, he has been forced to sit on the sidelines after injuring his hamstring during the Reds opening day 3-0 defeat to West Bromwich Albion.

But Reds boss Brendan Rodgers has told the clubs official website that the 30-year-old midfielder is recovering well and is on track to return to action soon.

“Joe is working well and the medical department are pleased with his progress.

“He was out onto the pitch over the weekend doing some work, so there’s still a little way to go with Joe yet but he’s on the right track, which is important.”

Assaidi, who joined the club from Heerenveen last month, could also be in contention to make his debut after the international break.

The 24-year-old pulled out of a reserve match with Manchester City on Monday after feeling tightness in his groin but should return to full training shortly.

“He should train today. He was due to play in the reserve game, but after training with the reserves in preparation for the game on Sunday, he felt a little bit of tightness.

“We’re hoping in the next couple of days he’ll be ready to train and re-join the group.”

Rodgers continued on Liverpoolfc.com:

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