LIVERPOOL have included Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez in their latest Champions League squad.
And Jurgen Klopp’s decision has raised hope the crocked duo will return before the end of the season.
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Superstar Van Dijk has not featured since he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament against Everton in October.
Meanwhile, Gomez has not been seen since hurting his knee in England training three months ago.
But the centre-backs have both been named in Klopp’s 25-man Champions League squad ahead of this month’s last-16 tie against RB Leipzig.
Selecting the pair raises hopes for fans that they may yet feature again this season.
But while he’s remained tight-lipped over Gomez, Klopp said that Van Dijk is unlikely to play again this term.
The tactician explained: “No doctor told me there’s a chance for Virgil to play again this season.
“I don’t want to say it’s impossible but it’s not likely. I think we have space for Virgil on the Champions League list.
“If we have space, then Virgil will also be on the Premier League list. If there is no space we have to make a decision. If he is there it is only because we hope for a miracle.”
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Liverpool have been hit hard by defensive injuries, with Joel Matip and makeshift centre-half Fabinho also succumbing to setbacks.
It forced Klopp to bring in TWO new defenders on deadline day.
Ben Davies was a surprise signing from Championship outfit Preston, with Liverpool hijacking his move to Celtic at the 11th hour.
Klopp also sanctioned a loan for Schalke’s Ozan Kabak, which can be made permanent in the summer if he impresses.
