Liverpool's Federico Chiesa debut plan emerges after frustrating injury setback

Liverpool's recent injury setback could pave the way for new signing Federico Chiesa to make his debut sooner than expected.

The Reds secured the services of the Italian international from Juventus last month, making him their only senior outfield addition this summer. Chiesa is yet to make his first appearance for Liverpool, having signed just two days before the team's clash with Manchester United prior to the international break.

The 26-year-old has been training with the Liverpool U21s at the AXA Training Centre during the break to boost his fitness levels. Arne Slot was anxiously waiting for all Liverpool players on international duty to return unscathed.

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However, Harvey Elliott's availability took a hit. Elliott now faces a period out of action after fracturing his foot while on duty with England U21s. The midfielder could be sidelined for up to six weeks, potentially not returning until the end of October.

Slot has yet to give Elliott his first start of the season, with the 21-year-old's sole appearance so far coming off the bench against Brentford. However, with a packed schedule ahead featuring Premier League, Champions League and Carabao Cup fixtures, Elliott was likely set for more game time as Slot planned to rotate his squad.

The injury to Elliott, however, means that there won't be as much flexibility as many would've hoped. That said, it could offer a golden opportunity for Chiesa. Liverpool's first match post-international break is against Nottingham Forest. With Elliott out of the picture, an extra spot in the matchday squad could potentially be filled by Chiesa.

It's probable that a starting position for the Italian international on Saturday might be too soon, considering Chiesa didn't have a full pre-season with Juventus prior to his Liverpool move. The Reds will likely aim to gradually increase the forward's game time over the coming weeks before he's ready to join their starting XI.

That being said, it's still feasible that Chiesa could make his Liverpool debut this weekend. The forward's skills mean that the Reds will always have a goal-scoring option at their disposal, even if the former Juventus man is initially only available as a substitute.

After the Forest match, Liverpool will jet off to Italy next week to face AC Milan in their opening league phase match of the revamped Champions League. This will be followed by a home game against AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League - before the Merseyside team take on West Ham in the Carabao Cup third round.