Lucky's comeback eases Liverpool's defensive woes ahead of pre‑season

Wellity Lucky has returned to training after months on the treatment table, a development the Reds describe as great news. His comeback eases the defensive shortage that has plagued Liverpool’s pre‑season, giving manager Andoni Iraola extra centre‑back options after a handful of appearances under Arne Slot, including a League Cup match against Crystal Palace.

Lucky, often overlooked, featured for Liverpool under manager Arne Slot last season. He made a handful of appearances, including a League Cup match against Crystal Palace.

Earlier this year Lucky picked up an injury that saw him sidelined for months. Despite being highly regarded at Liverpool, the injury caused him to be forgotten in the squad.

Pre‑season has already tested Liverpool’s defensive depth, with Joe Gomez still sidelined by injury. Giovanni Leoni is still returning from a lengthy spell on the treatment table, while Virgil van Dijk continues his preparations at the AXA Training Centre rather than featuring in matches. New signing Jeremy Jacquet has also picked up a knock, further limiting centre‑back options.

For the club’s opening two pre‑season games the senior centre‑back choices were Luke Chambers, Mor Talla Ndiaye and Ifeanyi Ndukwe. Ndukwe cannot be used for the regular season because he does not qualify for a work permit and will be sent out on loan. This means Liverpool cannot rely on academy players in that key position as planned.

Van Dijk is expected to return and feature in the last two friendly games against Como and AS Monaco, providing Iraola with a familiar partner at centre‑back. Gomez, Leoni and Jacquet are also projected to regain full fitness soon. Their recoveries should further ease the defensive shortage.

Lucky’s return adds another centre‑back option for Iraola, reducing pressure to seek an emergency signing before the transfer window closes. It also gives the defender a chance to re‑establish himself after months on the sidelines.