Liverpool forward Luis Diaz is making positive progress in his return to fitness after a lengthy spell on the sidelines, according to injury expert Ben Dinnery.
The Lowdown: Diaz a long-term absentee
The Colombian has been absent since October, when a knee injury forced him off in the 3-2 defeat away to Arsenal in the Premier League.
It was a major blow for Liverpool at the time, with Diaz arguably one of the standout players at that point in the season, scoring three goals and registering two assists in the league.
With the Reds on a break due to the ongoing World Cup and set for an imminent warm-weather training camp in Dubai, it now looks as though the 25-year-old is edging towards a return to action.
The Latest: Positive injury news on Diaz
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Dinnery confirmed that Diaz's progress in his injury battle is currently positive and that he should take part in the training camp.
The injury expert said:
"With Diaz, it’s good news. He’s progressing as planned and he will be a part of the club’s tour of Dubai for some warm weather training.
"He will be training with the squad, so the intentions are fully that Diaz will be there for Liverpool once those Premier League fixtures kick-off again.
"That has gone relatively smoothly and, in terms of the timeline, we’re bang on schedule."
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The Verdict: Huge boost for Liverpool
This is an enormous boost for Liverpool, with Diaz such an influential player for them ever since joining Porto last January, adding a spark to their attack and scoring 10 goals in 38 appearances so far.
The Colombia international possesses speed, quick feet, directness and end product, all of which have the potential to terrify opponents, and the Reds have looked imbalanced out on the left wing without him.
To have Diaz available when Liverpool return to league action on Boxing Day would feel huge, and he is someone who is capable of inspiring a return to top form for Jurgen Klopp's side in the second half of the season.