Major boost for Liverpool as injured quartet return to training

Rejoice, the international break is finally over. It’s back to the business of Premier League action on Saturday, with the Reds travelling to Newcastle for the early kick off.

Brendan Rodgers could have a full squad available for the first time this season, boosted by the return from injury of Glen Johnson, Joe Allen, Aly Cissokho and Philippe Coutinho.

All four have returned to training this week and could feature for the trip north, according to The Mirror.

Johnson has been a huge miss since limping off in the win over Man United at Anfield with what was later explained to be a high-ankle sprain. While Coutinho was injured in the following match at Swansea.

Both players could seamlessly slot into the newly introduced 3412 formation, with Johnson coming in as right wing-back and Coutinho, whose return is ahead of schedule, centraly behind Suarez and Sturridge.

Aly Cissokho played for the Under 21’s in their 5-0 thrashing of Tottenham last week and could give Jose Enrique a run for his place on the left, while Allen has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since the Notts County League Cup match.

Rodgers also has Lucas Leiva back from suspension after missing the win over Crystal Palace. The Brazilian made his first appearances for his country in three years this week.

Meanwhile, Luis Suarez’ Uruguay play a must-win World Cup qualifier against Argentina in the early hours of Wednesday morning, meaning he will not return to England until later than the rest of the squad.

Newcastle v Liverpool is 12:45pm (UK) kick off on Saturday, on BT Sports.