The cavalry might just be arriving at the perfect moment. With Champions League qualification within touching distance, Arne Slot has received a timely boost ahead of Friday night's crucial trip to Villa Park.

Mohamed Salah is back in contention after Liverpool confirmed he would play again this season. The Egyptian has been cleared for action against Aston Villa, though Slot is being cautious about his involvement. "Salah is available for a few minutes but hopefully can come in," the manager revealed.

It's a measured approach that makes perfect sense. With Liverpool needing just one win from their final two matches to secure Champions League football, there's no need to rush their talisman back into the starting eleven immediately. But having Salah available as an option could prove decisive in what promises to be a nervy evening in Birmingham.

Alisson Becker presents another intriguing selection dilemma. The Brazilian goalkeeper has returned to training and could reclaim his place between the sticks, though Slot isn't making any guarantees. "Alisson trains with us again, let's see where he is tomorrow, if he is ready already or has to wait one more week," he explained.

The goalkeeper situation will likely come down to a final assessment on matchday morning. Having your first choice keeper back for such a pivotal fixture would be ideal, but only if he's genuinely ready to perform at the required level.

Florian Wirtz faces a race against time after being struck down by a stomach infection. The midfielder is on antibiotics and will undergo a late fitness test. "Stomach infection, so let's see how fit he is for tomorrow. He's on antibiotics. Let's see if he's ready to play tomorrow," Slot confirmed.

It's hardly ideal preparation for such a significant match, but these are the challenges that define seasons. Wirtz has been adapting to life in the Premier League, and his availability could provide crucial depth in what might be a frantic finale.

There's better news regarding Ibrahima Konate, who gave supporters a scare when he was substituted in the second half against Chelsea last weekend. The defender has been given the all clear and trained normally with the squad. "Ibou is OK, trained with us," Slot confirmed, providing welcome relief in what has been an injury ravaged campaign.

Looking at the longer term casualties, there's cautious optimism around Wataru Endo's recovery from ankle surgery. The midfielder is progressing through his rehabilitation and working with the medical team outdoors, though he won't feature in these crucial final matches. "Endo is starting to go out, not with the team, but he is starting to do exercises outside with the rehab team," Slot explained.

The more serious injuries continue to cast shadows over next season's preparations. Hugo Ekitike remains sidelined with his Achilles problem, facing a lengthy rehabilitation process that could extend well into 2027. Conor Bradley is also working through his recovery, with a potential return later this year, whilst young defender Leoni continues his ACL rehabilitation.

But those are concerns for another day. Right now, everything centres on Villa Park and the opportunity to take a giant step towards Champions League qualification. Having Salah back in the squad, even in a limited capacity, provides Slot with options he didn't possess against Chelsea.

The dropped points against the Blues at Anfield served as a reminder that nothing can be taken for granted in this business. Villa away was never going to be straightforward, but with key players returning to fitness, Liverpool have reason for quiet confidence.

Friday night could define where this transitional season ultimately leads, and having their Egyptian magician back in the mix might just make all the difference.