Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre at Kirkby buzzed with a youthful energy on Wednesday, despite many first-team players still filtering back from international duty. The session, captured by club photographers, delivered a significant boost for the Reds, with Jeremie Frimpong and Stefan Bajcetic making their long-awaited returns to first-team training. Alongside them, new signing Alexander Isak also joined the group, marking a positive step in his integration into Arne Slot’s squad.
Jeremie Frimpong, Liverpool’s summer acquisition, provided a major lift as he rejoined his teammates on the grass after missing the last two matches with a hamstring injury. The dynamic right-back, who was substituted late in Liverpool’s victory over Bournemouth on August 15, has been sidelined since. His presence at Kirkby on deadline day, where he was seen greeting Alexander Isak while continuing his rehabilitation, hinted at his imminent return.
Manager Arne Slot had previously suggested that Frimpong could be in contention for the upcoming match against Burnley following the international break. With his return to training, Frimpong now poses a selection dilemma, potentially challenging Conor Bradley and Dominik Szoboszlai for the right-back role. His versatility and attacking flair could prove vital as Liverpool navigate a busy schedule.
Stefan Bajcetic’s return to first-team training marked an even more significant milestone. The young midfielder, who endured a challenging season marred by injuries, has not featured for Liverpool’s senior side in over a year. Limited to just three appearances last campaign, Bajcetic spent time on loan at RB Salzburg and Las Palmas, where he battled to regain fitness. A fresh hamstring setback at the end of his Las Palmas stint required surgery in June, further delaying his return.
Despite interest from several overseas clubs during the transfer window, Liverpool opted to keep Bajcetic, with Slot believing the 20-year-old can contribute significantly this season. His appearance at Kirkby on Wednesday, captured by Getty Images, was a testament to his resilience and a promising sign for Liverpool’s midfield depth.
Alexander Isak, Liverpool’s marquee signing from Newcastle United, also took part in Wednesday’s session as he works to build match fitness. The Swedish striker, whose summer was disrupted, trained separately from his Newcastle teammates before his move and was deemed unfit for Sweden’s first match during the international break. A brief cameo off the bench in Sweden’s defeat to Kosovo highlighted his need for additional work to reach peak condition.
Isak’s presence at Kirkby signals his gradual integration into Slot’s plans, with the manager likely to ease him into action as he adapts to Liverpool’s high-intensity style. His inclusion in training alongside Frimpong and Bajcetic underscores a positive step forward for the Reds’ attacking options.
With many senior players still absent due to international commitments, Wednesday’s session had a distinct youthful vibe. Youngsters Jayden Danns and Kaide Gordon stepped up to train with the first team, showcasing Liverpool’s commitment to nurturing talent. Meanwhile, Freddie Woodman, Joe Gomez, and Federico Chiesa—none of whom were called up for international duty—were the only senior players pictured at the AXA Training Centre.
The return of Frimpong and Bajcetic, coupled with Isak’s ongoing integration, represents a significant exodus from Liverpool’s medical room. For Slot, this double injury boost provides much-needed depth and versatility as the Reds prepare for their next challenges. With a blend of returning stars and emerging youngsters, Liverpool’s squad is beginning to take shape, offering fans plenty of reasons for optimism.