4 things spotted from Liverpool training with injury return and Rio Ngumoha partnership

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Andoni Iraola has overseen another training session for Liverpool, as the preseason tour team ramps up its preparations before the friendly match with SunderlandAndoni Iraola has overseen another training session in Liverpool's pre-season training camp in Chicago(Image: (Photo by PETER POWELL / AFP via Getty Images))Liverpool players are stepping up their preparations during preseason, as the tour roster prepares for the first challenge of their time in America.The Reds are based in Chicago for their training before jetting out for a clash against Sunderland this weekend in the opening friendly of the preseason tour. While Andoni Iraola doesn't have his full first-team available, due to a mixture of injuries and late returns from the World Cup, the manager will start to implement his tactical ideas and can get a first-hand look at how his team is set up.Ahead of that first test, Liverpool has started to ramp up pre-season training, with the club giving some insight into the latest day in the gym and on the grass.So, with that said, here's a look at some things Liverpool.com spotted from training in Chicago.Bajcetic injury returnLiverpool youngster Stefan Bajcetic is ramping up his recovery from injury and was spotted among the training group once again in Chicago.The midfielder has endured an injury nightmare over the past few seasons, spending over 14 months out following hamstring surgery, with his recent return to action coming as quite the boost.Stefan Bajcetic is edging closer to making his return(Image: Getty Images)The Spaniard doesn't appear to be in full group training yet, as Iraola discussed the situation surrounding Bajcetic and other injuries in the team before the training session.

Stefan [Bajcetic] and Wataru [Endo] are close to train with the group," the manager revealed.His time spent in training comes as a welcome return, one that the star will hope brings about a change in fortunes.New Ngumoha partnershipThe training session put on by Iraola saw the players split into teams with different jerseys on, giving an opportunity for some new partnerships to be formed. Among those put on the red team were Rio Ngumoha and Kostas Tsimikas, a duo that could become well-acquainted on the left flank for Liverpool next season.Rio Ngumoha was seen teeing up Kostas Tsimikas during the training session(Image: YouTube/LFC)The former enjoyed a breakout season last time out, playing on the same wing as either Milos Kerkez or Andy Robertson, though an exit for the Scotsman means that a return for Tsimikas has come through.

The left-back spent last season on loan, but his return to Liverpool means he could offer a solid rotation option out wide, having proven to be a capable backup in the backline.For the wings to work, Liverpool will need combinations to come through, and that connection between the full-backs and wingers could be crucial. The time spent in pre-season could help bring through that partnership for Ngumoha and Tsimikas, which will be a new one heading into the new Premier League campaign.Hugo Ekitike watches onWhile some stars have stayed in England to continue their rehabilitation from injury, Hugo Ekitike has joined the rest of the Liverpool team in Chicago for the preseason tour.Hugo Ekitike watched his teammates get to work(Image: YouTube/LFC)The striker is still some way off returning, following his Achilles issue, but he is making every effort to make himself available to Iraola as soon as possible.Ekitike was spotted watching on during the Reds' training session, surely wishing he was out there getting ready for next season.Andoni Iraola discussionEach coach will have their own style of working, and for Iraola, his approach appears to be one that is geared toward working heavily with the players.While some prefer a hands-off approach, the Spanish coach was seen speaking to players directly, giving them instructions and working with them through moments.