Lucas, Shelvey And Reina Injury Latest

Brendan Rodgers has confirmed Lucas Leiva is to take a step closer to a first-team comeback by returning to training at Melwood today – while Pepe Reina and Jonjo Shelvey will both be fit for Saturday's visit of Wigan Athletic.

The Brazil midfielder has been sidelined with a thigh problem since August 26, but is now just a 'couple of weeks' away from returning to action, according to the boss.

Rodgers told journalists at Melwood: "We're in a good moment. Some of the players that have been out are starting to return back to training.

"Lucas Leiva will come back into training, which is great news. He has worked tirelessly in his rehabilitation, so he comes back out onto the field in a good moment.

"He won't be ready to play for the weekend, but certainly over the next couple of weeks he'll be very close."

On Shelvey and Reina, Rodgers added: "Jonjo will be back into training today, so he'll be fine [for the weekend].

"Pepe has been back in training. He was very close to last weekend [at Chelsea].

"He made a great commitment to show he's fighting for his place here in the group. He was called into the Spanish squad, but stayed here to ensure he was fit and strong - and he's been training all week.

"He'll be available for the weekend."

A hamstring problem has meant Reina has not figured for Liverpool since October 7, with Brad Jones deputising for the injured custodian.

Rodgers admits he'll have something of a selection dilemma to make due to Jones' impressive form.

The boss said: "Brad has done terrific. I've said before, and I'll repeat again, Pepe Reina is our No.1 goalkeeper.

"He's been an outstanding goalkeeper for this football club. I know from speaking to him that he's committed and very determined to continue at a very high level for the next nine-10 years.

"He's been a model professional since I came in here, and I talk regularly with him to try and improve his game and help him get back to the level he wants to get to.

"It's good to have two good goalkeepers. Brad has stepped in and has been excellent. Now I have a choice to make for the weekend."