Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag hoped on Friday that his team would receive a significant boost with the return of key players.
Despite enduring a challenging season marred by injuries, United are gearing up for a crucial clash against Jurgen Klopp's side at Old Trafford on Sunday, aiming to keep their silverware aspirations alive.
Ten Hag provided an encouraging update at his pre-match press conference on Friday, stating, "We had a good week. Today we had a session, and they were all training."
He hinted at the return of right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka after a two-month absence, along with the availability of England defender Harry Maguire and Denmark striker Rasmus Hojlund.
"I think (they are available)," Ten Hag remarked, adding, "Of course, we have to see how they recover from this, but it looks good."
Furthermore, Ten Hag shared positive news regarding the progress of midfielder Mason Mount, who has been sidelined for four months with a calf issue. "It was very good that Mason Mount trained with us the whole week," he stated, expressing optimism about Mount's return to action.
However, United will still be without the services of Lisandro Martinez, Anthony Martial, Luke Shaw, and Tyrell Malacia, while Jonny Evans continues to manage a minor issue that has kept him out of Northern Ireland's squad for their March internationals.
Despite the pressure mounting on Ten Hag amidst speculation over his future at Old Trafford following the arrival of co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, the Dutchman urged his players to draw confidence from their recent positive run of results.
"I think the players, the team showed lately that from January on we are in a very good series of games with a lot of wins, so they have to believe they can do it," he asserted, emphasising the importance of maintaining momentum against an in-form Liverpool side.
Ten Hag also dismissed reports linking Marcus Rashford with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, affirming the forward's integral role in United's long-term plans. "We didn't re-sign him last season for four years with the intention to sell him, no.
He should be part of this project," Ten Hag clarified, putting an end to speculation surrounding Rashford's future.
