Arne Slot reveals how close Alisson came to Liverpool return vs Crystal Palace

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Alisson Becker was absent again for Liverpool's Premier League game against Crystal Palace, with the Reds' usual first-choice goalkeeper expected to return from injury soon

Alisson Becker is expected to return from injury for Liverpool soon(Image: Getty Images)

Arne Slot has revealed Alisson Becker was close to a return for Liverpool’s game against Crystal Palace.

The Brazilian has been out since the Champions League second leg victory over Galatasaray in March with a hamstring problem, although he is expected to make a return soon.

A potential return against Palace had been talked up, with Liverpool also without backup goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili after he was stretchered off against Everton. The Georgia international is expected to be out for at least two weeks, having been sent to hospital after colliding with Toffees striker Beto before being replaced by Freddie Woodman.

There was no sign of Alisson in the matchday squad to face Palace on Saturday though, with Woodman handed his first league start as 21-year-old keeper Armin Pecsi was named on the bench.

Asked before the game how close Alisson had been to a return, Slot said: "Almost but also not 'almost' – that means that he's close to a return to play but not close enough to start.

“So, I didn't have to tell Freddie. I did, of course, but I think it was quite clear and obvious for him during the week that he would start this game today."

Arne Slot has revealed Alisson was close to a return for Liverpool against Crystal Palace(Image: Alfie Cosgrove/News Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Alisson will therefore being eyeing up a return to action when Liverpool heads to Old Trafford next weekend to face Manchester United, with both sides looking to wrap up their spots in the top five and secure qualification for next season’s Champions League.

Alisson’s continued absence comes amid ongoing speculation over his future, with the 33-year-old being linked with a move to Juventus in the summer, despite the Reds having taken up an option for a further year on his contract.

Speaking on Friday, Slot admitted Liverpool may have a decision to make over the goalkeeper’s future.

"I think the club is run in a certain way and we make decisions that the club thinks are in the best interests of the club, and it could mean this is the reason why," Slot said when asked if Liverpool could afford to lose another very experienced player.

"It could mean another good argument why we acted how we acted. I think the history of all the transfers shows that nothing was done without a purpose or without thinking about it.

"Look, the people who make these decisions take everything into account. They try to make the best decisions with the interest of the club.

"[Experience] is definitely one argument to keep him but there are other arguments. That is a decision the club has to make if that is needed. In the end, he still has one year."