Joe Gomez Is Back. Maybe.

The rise and fall and re-rise of Joe Gomez is a story perpetually in the background of this new Liverpool ascendency under Jürgen Klopp. The English defender has been on a steady slog back to match fitness after suffering an ACL tear over a year ago before ever even featuring for Klopp.

But the re-rise is in full effect. Gomez has been playing and impressing with the under 23s and when asked about the chances of the ex-Charlton center back seeing the Anfield pitch against Plymouth, Klopp was almost jolly at the possibility.

“Yes, he’s in good shape,” said the manager. “So, maybe. First game at Anfield for a long time, eh?

“Maybe that would not be the biggest surprise if he would be in the line-up if nothing happens.”

The Liverpool manager was clearly holding his excitement close to his chest. Having another available defender in the squad will always be welcome. But, Gomez is also still very young, with heaps of potential and if he comes good at Liverpool that would be a huge boost for the club. It would save the club money for other dealings in the transfer market and usher in a defender who, while not having played for the German manager yet, has been on the Klopp Experience for quite some time now and should be fully indoctrinated in the ways of the high press.

What would a showing against Plymouth in the FA Cup mean for Gomez? Again, Klopp keeps his enthusiasm in check.

“Next step and a long way to go,” Klopp said. “He’s already had a long way and it will still be. But, everything is good. That’s what we said when we didn’t really have an idea to give him on loan to some other club.

“It would be nice for all of us. Of course, he’s a wonderful boy and we are all really happy for him.

“He’s on a good way, training looks really good. So, it’s the logical next step.”

Oh, the buzz of delight if Joe Gomez walks onto the pitch at Anfield this weekend.