James McConnell returns to Liverpool first team training after injury layoff

James McConnell’s loan spell at Ajax came to a premature end back in January, with the youngster undergoing a minor surgery

Arne Slot has welcomed James McConnell back to Liverpool’s senior training sessions this week, as the talented midfielder nears a competitive return following a difficult period away from Anfield.

The Reds are currently finalising their preparations for a Premier League encounter with Crystal Palace on Saturday.

The return of McConnell provides a major boost for the coaching staff ahead of the season’s final month. The 21-year-old was involved in full training on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from surgery.

McConnell’s season began with a high-profile loan move to Ajax in August, which followed his signing of a new long-term contract on Merseyside.

However, the move to Amsterdam was hampered by instability at the Dutch club, including the departure of former Liverpool coach John Heitinga, which saw the Englishman’s opportunities limited to just seven appearances before his spell was eventually terminated early in February.

Since returning to Liverpool, he has undergone a patient rehabilitation process, which included featuring for the U21 side in recent friendlies to build match fitness.

Slot’s long-standing admiration

The return of McConnell is particularly significant given the public backing he received from Arne Slot during the 2024/25 campaign.

In January 2025, Slot famously ruled out a mid-season loan for the youngster after being impressed by his “competitive” nature during a Champions League fixture against PSV Eindhoven.

The Dutchman noted that while regular minutes elsewhere could be beneficial, McConnell’s quality made him a mechanical necessity for the senior squad’s depth.

“I liked him a lot today,” Slot remarked at the time. “He’s also a player that hasn’t played many 90 minutes in the last six or seven months… but he impressed me a lot.”

The midfielder’s re-emergence comes at a time when Liverpool are balancing the final stages of the title race with European commitments.

Having already made 13 senior appearances for the club, including a memorable cameo in the 2024 Carabao Cup final under Jürgen Klopp, McConnell is viewed as a reliable option for the holding midfield role.

His presence in training suggests he could be in contention for a place on the bench against Palace, providing a positive new-signing feel for the squad as they enter the final five matches of the Premier League season.