A ‘Thanos’ return could be exactly what Jürgen Klopp needs against Manchester City after Liverpool received a boost.

Last month, Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp was without a midfielder referred to in the league as “Thanos,” but the Reds are now prepared to welcome him back.

Liverpool is anticipated to emerge from the international break in a significantly stronger position than it was at this time last year. Jürgen Klopp is making preparations to maintain a close watch on Manchester City as the Reds appear to be reliving previous title contests.

A 12.30 p.m. start time at the Etihad Stadium spells trouble for Liverpool, who are once again scheduled to compete in the least desirable television time window. Fortunately, a crucial member of the squad may return on Christmas Day to assist Liverpool in regaining the lead in the standings.

Curtis Jones, who previously earned the moniker “Thanos” from Arsenal legend Ian Wright and has maintained his form since a promising outing at Stamford Bridge last season, is anticipated to return from injury following the completion of his three-match league suspension (as reported by This is Anfield).

In his capacity as Klopp’s closest substitute for Georginio Wijnaldum, Jones has, in his own way, been required to convert skeptics to believers. Undoubtedly, a portion of us have maintained longstanding confidence in Jones’s capability, as he has offered numerous indications throughout his tenure as a senior professional, most notably in certain Champions League performances. However, the consensus is currently expanding.

Wright is among those who have maintained their conviction over an extended period of time. He stated the following on his Ringer podcast show in April: “Curtis Jones. His arrival is imminent, ladies and gentlemen. As he predicted when the Hulk was gunned down, Thanos is on the approach. Curtis Jones will be present.

This season, he has been proven to be correct. Despite the fact that Liverpool’s midfield evolved in the summer with the addition of four new players, with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch the two most likely to replace Jones, the academy graduate earned a starting spot and participated in one of the season’s most significant matches against Spurs.

Jones has been subject to impetuous criticism, with some expecting him to replicate the attacking prowess he displayed during his academy years. Additionally, drawing comparisons to players his age, such as Phil Foden of Manchester City, has proven to be unproductive.

However, Jones has since established his own position in the Liverpool XI, where his game intelligence has become legendary following a lengthy tenure.

Fortunately, Liverpool’s summer transfer activity ensured that nothing would collapse during his absence. The only outcome that impeded a flawless Premier League innings between the two international breaks was a draw against Luton at Kenilworth Road. While on assignment with their respective national teams, several Reds have maintained their form.

And with the Reds having topped the Premier League standings with a victory at Manchester City, Klopp is expected to welcome back a midfielder who assisted in establishing dominance in one of the season’s most challenging contests.