Virgil van Dijk and Salah Return Early from International Duty

Both Mohamed Salah (left) and Virgil van Dijk (right) of Liverpool will be out of contract at the end of the season.

Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah will return to the club earlier than anticipated after the international teams released them from duty. Van Dijk the Netherlands captain received a red card during a 1-1 draw against Hungary which led to his suspension for Monday’s Nations League match against Germany. Consequently, he will not continue in international play.

Meanwhile, Salah, who captained Egypt scored in a 2-0 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying victory over Mauritania in Cairo on Friday. Although he initially expected to play in the return fixture on Tuesday, his national team also released him early from duty. This early return significantly boosts Liverpool manager Arne Slot as his team prepares to host Chelsea in a Premier League clash on Sunday, October 20, at 16:30 BST.

Liverpool enters this match at the top of the Premier League table holding a one-point lead over reigning champions Manchester City. Having both Virgil van Dijk and Salah back strengthens Liverpool’s chances as they face Chelsea, a key rival in the title race. The Reds aim to maintain their strong form and capitalize on their home advantage to secure vital points in their pursuit of the league title.

With both players returning, Liverpool will see an uplift in squad depth and overall performance, helping them solidify their position at the top of the table.