Door always open – but Gerrard won’t play for Liverpool

Gerrard and Klopp at training

Jurgen Klopp has welcomed Steven Gerrard’s return to training at Liverpool – but has once again denied reports he could join the Reds on loan from LA Galaxy.

The 35-year-old, currently on a post-season Major League Soccer break from the Galaxy, was at the club’s Melwood training complex on Monday to be put through his paces by Klopp.

Gerrard is keen to maintain his fitness levels prior to his return to pre-season in California in mid-January ahead of his first full campaign in MLS and recently met with Klopp to finalise the details, having previously agreed the opportunity with former boss Brendan Rodgers.

But amid fresh claims the player could join the Reds on a short-term deal, Klopp insisted that while Gerrard was always welcome back to training, he denied he could pull on a first-team shirt once again.

Speaking at a press conference to preview Wednesday’s Capital One Cup quarter-final clash at Southampton, Klopp said: "Steven Gerrard won’t play for us!

"He’s in good shape though. I said to the team, this is normal (Gerrard coming back to train) and the door is always open for Stevie.”

Klopp admits Gerrard’s presence gave everyone a lift on Monday, and added: “It’s a good situation, everybody had a smile when they saw Stevie, it’s good to have him here and we hope we can help him. He can help us by being in the dressing room.”