Liverpool Team News: Rodgers Offers Update Ahead Of Arsenal Clash

Liverpool travel to the capital this weekend to take on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Sunday.

Ahead of the game, boss Brendan Rodgers has been speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday and gave Liverpoolfc.com the latest team news.

The Reds boss confirmed that right-back Glen Johnson is close to making a return to the first team squad after sitting out the clubs last five games. The 29-year-old hasn’t played since the 2-2 draw at home to Aston Villa last month with the club deciding to give him an extended break to finally shake-off niggling groin and ankle problems.

However, Johnson is now back in full training and although the Arsenal game is likely to come too soon, Rodgers is hopeful he’ll be available for selection next week.

The Northern Irishman also confirmed that Daniel Agger is in contention having come off the bench during the closing stages of Wednesday’s 3-2 win over Fulham, although it remains to be seen whether the Danish international will be recalled to the starting eleven.

Jose Enrique, Mamadou Sakho and Lucas Leiva remain on the sidelines meaning Rodgers will have a similar squad to the one he took to Crvane Cottage in midweek. Here’s what he told the clubs official website:

“We’ll be similar to what we were the other night [against Fulham].

“Glen Johnson is working very well. I’m not sure he’ll be ready for the game this weekend, but if we can have a good week next week he’ll be very close.

“He looks fresher and he looks fitter. That period that he’s had out has really helped him. He’s in good condition. But there is still a bit to go yet. Daniel Agger is back in the squad and it’s as it was really.”

Liverpool should be full of confidence heading to the Emirates after beating Arsenal 5-1 at Anfield last weekend, while they will also be on a high after coming from behind to beat Fulham in midweek to close the gap on the top three in the league.

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