Liverpool Face Fresh Setback as PSG Star Bradley Barcola Returns to Training Ahead of Anfield Clash

Liverpools task of overturning their Champions League quarter-final deficit just got significantly harder.

Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola has returned to training after a spell on the sidelines, raising the prospect of the 23-year-old French international being available for Tuesdays second leg at Anfield.

According to reports from LEquipe, Barcola is expected to be named among the substitutes for the crucial clash, having stepped up his recovery in recent days. The former Lyon man is said to be pain-free but has not yet pushed himself to full capacity, making it unlikely he will start the game.

Nevertheless, the threat he poses from the bench is significant. With the tie finely balanced, PSG manager Luis Enrique could turn to Barcola in the closing stages if the game remains in the balance, a prospect that will concern Arne Slot and his coaching staff.

Liverpool head into Tuesdays match already dealing with a key absence of their own. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker has been ruled out for the visit of PSG, with Slot confirming after Saturdays Premier League win over Fulham that the Brazilian is yet to rejoin full training.

The defensive disruption compounds Liverpools problems at both ends of the pitch heading into what promises to be a monumental night at Anfield.

On a more positive note, young forward Rio Ngumoha continued his impressive rise with another standout display against Fulham, drawing further praise from club legend John Aldridge, who insisted the teenager should have played the full 90 minutes.

Liverpool must find a way to break down PSG without their first-choice goalkeeper while also keeping a dangerous opponent at bay. With Barcola potentially waiting in the wings, Slot will know the importance of taking any early lead and not leaving the door open for fresh Parisian attacking talent late in the game.