By David Lynch, Merseyside Correspondent

7th Apr, 2023 | 4:00pm

Sources: Update on Thiago Alcantara starting for Liverpool v Arsenal after Kirkby reveal today

Liverpool are confident that Thiago Alcantara will be part of the squad to face Arsenal on Sunday, sources have told Football Insider.

The Spaniard had already returned to first-team training prior to Tuesday’s visit to Chelsea, but was left out as Liverpool looked to take a cautious approach to his recovery following a two-month absence.

However, he is certain to be part of Jurgen Klopp’s selection for the visit of the Premier League leaders to Anfield should he avoid an unexpected setback in sessions at their Kirkby headquarters on Friday and Saturday, and could even be a surprise face in the starting XI.

Thiago last featured for the Reds as they were beaten 3-0 by relegation-threatened Wolves at Molineux in early February.

He has since been struggling with a hip flexor issue that has forced him to miss 10 consecutive games in all competitions.

Klopp struck a cautious note on the Spain international’s fitness on Friday, saying: “Thiago [is] training completely normal.

“[He] was not out that long, trained now three, four times with the team and might be available.

“But we have to check how he feels today.”

But there is confidence behind the scenes that Thiago will be back involved against Mikel Arteta’s side.

Virgil van Dijk is also in line for a return when the Gunners head to Merseyside, and is expected to go straight back into the starting XI having overcome illness.

Harvey Elliott will also be involved after, as Football Insider revealed on Thursday, being rested for the goalless draw with Chelsea.

However, this weekend’s game is likely to come too soon for Luis Diaz, who is targeting a substitute appearance against Leeds United after recovering from a knee issue.

Arsenal are chasing their first Anfield victory over Liverpool in the Premier League since 2012.

In other news, Record-breaking £198m Liverpool outlay confirmed.