Jurgen Klopp has claimed that things are looking “positive” on Luis Diaz’s father being released as the Liverpool star was named in their matchday squad to face Luton. Diaz’s family was rocked by news last week that both of his parents were kidnapped back home in Colombia.
His mother was rescued by police, but Diaz’s father remains at large with the Colombian government announcing the National Liberation Army (ELN) were responsible for the kidnapping. The guerilla group put out a statement this week insisting they would get Diaz’s father released soon.
It’s not yet been confirmed whether Luis Manuel Diaz has been returned to his family home, but Klopp has confirmed things are at least looking “positive”. That appears to have convinced Diaz enough to make his return to football for the first time since his parents were kidnapped last week.
“It’s still pretty emotional but Luis decided three days ago he wanted to join training again,” Klopp said.
“I said it before, training ground and football pitch is a safe place for the boys. There he can behave normal, forget for a few minutes at least what’s going on, but all the signs he gets as far as I understand it are very positive.
“Negotiations are ongoing but still positive so that’s why he wanted to be a part of the team and could come on as well. Nobody can really imagine how something like that feels, but on the training ground it’s fine and that’s why he’s here.”
