Raphinha available for Liverpool clash

Raphinha available for Liverpool clash

Winger free to feature against the Reds.

Leeds United can confirm Raphinha will be available for selection when the Whites take on Liverpool at Elland Road on Sunday.

The 24-year-old looked set to be ruled out of the fixture, after he did not travel to link up with Brazil over the international break due to COVID-19 quarantine restrictions and a complaint was lodged with FIFA.

The complaint has now been withdrawn and FIFA have confirmed Raphinha will be available for Sunday’s clash.

Leeds United would like to thank the Brazilian Football Confederation and FIFA for their co-operation and understanding on the matter, in what is a difficult situation for all parties.

FIFA said: “Based on positive signals and constructive dialogue FIFA has received from the UK government towards the international match window in October, recognising that players have no control over the extreme situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and sanitary restrictions currently imposed and, as a sign of good faith, goodwill and cooperation, the member associations of Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Paraguay, in close consultation with FIFA, have taken the decision to withdraw their complaints in relation to the England-based players, and players bound to play in England, who were not released for the recent international matches.”

Along with Raphinha, for opponents Liverpool, Alisson, Fabinho and Roberto Firmino will all be eligible to play.

Thiago Silva (Chelsea), Ederson, Gabriel Jesus (both Manchester City), Raul Jimenez (Wolves), Francisco Sierralta (Watford) and Miguel Almiron (Newcastle United), will also be available for selection for their respective clubs this weekend.

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