Liverpool handed Luis Diaz boost ahead of Real Madrid clash but three key players missing from training

Luis Diaz could be available for Liverpool's trip to Real Madrid on Wednesday, but three other key players were missing from training ahead of their Champions League clash.

Liverpool travel to the Bernabeu on Wednesday with a mountain to climb, having been thrashed 5-2 in the first leg at Anfield.

And whilst the odds are stacked heavily against them, Reds fans may take some pleasure in seeing Diaz return to the field, after he was spotted back in training on Tuesday morning.

The Colombian hasn't featured for Jurgen Klopp since October last year, when he was forced off with a knee problem during Liverpool's narrow 3-2 defeat to Arsenal.

Diaz trained away from the other players on Tuesday as he made a significant step in his recovery. Whilst he may not be back to full match fitness, he may be play a part from the bench against Los Blancos.

However, in a major blow for Klopp, three other key midfielders were absent from Tuesday's session.

Who was missing from training?

Captain Jordan Henderson wasn't pictured at the Kirby Training Centre after reportedly suffering with a cold which kept him out of Liverpool's 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth on the weekend.

Meanwhile, teenage midfielder Stefan Bajcetic also appeared to be absent, sparking concern over his place in the side to face Real.

The Spaniard has established himself as a regular under Klopp this season, and started the first leg against Carlo Ancelotti's side last month.

The experienced Thiago was the last to be reported missing, having sustained a hip flexor injury in training back in February.

The 31-year-old isn't expected to make his return until after the international break.

However, he posted a video of himself working out in the gym on Tuesday, encouraging fans that he may be fit for the second leg. Although his absence at training would indicate he won't be back in time for the European showdown.

Topics: Luis Diaz, Liverpool, Thiago Alcantara, Jordan Henderson, Jurgen Klopp, Real Madrid, Champions League, Football

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno