Alisson set to make Liverpool comeback at Man Utd clash (Mail)

Alisson is primed to make his return in Liverpool's biggest game of the season at Old Trafford after recovering from a serious calf issue.

The Brazil international has been absent since he tore his calf muscle in the 37th minute of the opening game of the campaign against Norwich, an injury that was so severe it left him on crutches for a short period.

Provided he comes through the next week without any reaction, Alisson will be between the posts for the clash with Manchester United as the league leaders look to consolidate their place at the top.

Alisson, who was signed for £64.6million in July 2018, had a huge impact in his first season on Merseyside and his outstanding performance in the Champions League final ensured he was recognised as the world's finest goalkeeper at the FIFA Best awards last month.

It is a reflection on how well Adrian has done in Alisson's absence, however, that he has not been missed as much as Liverpool initially feared.

Adrian, a free transfer acquisition following Simon Mignolet's sale to Club Bruges in August, has made significant improvement following a couple of jittery early performances.

His levels of performance have certainly improved since the last international break in September when Adrian was subjected to an intense week of training with Liverpool's goalkeeping coach John Achterberg.

There is no question, though, that Alisson will bring a renewed assurance to Liverpool's defence. He had a rushed preparation in the summer – he played against Norwich 11 days after returning from his summer holiday – but Liverpool's medical staff have been delighted with his rehabilitation.

It now points to him being ready for a sequence of games in the next four weeks that include collisions with Tottenham and Manchester City in the Premier League, as well a Champions League double-header against Genk.