Liverpool remain cautious about Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s return date despite the midfielder’s inclusion in the Champions League squad.

Oxlade-Chamberlain is making progress in his recovery from serious knee ligament damage – sustained against Roma last April – but it is still likely he will not be available for first-team selection for another two months.

That means April is the optimistic timescale for his comeback. Liverpool will have to reach the quarter-finals for the 25-year-old to feature in the competition.

Oxlade-Chamberlain has been in light training and ahead of schedule given he was originally ruled out for the entire season. He has been sorely missed in Liverpool’s midfield.

However, by ensuring he is eligible Liverpool have the insurance of knowing the England international will be available if the club progress and he is 100 per cent fit.