Jeremie Frimpong prepared to leave his mark following a challenging beginning to his Liverpool journey

The Dutch player paused to chat with the press after the scoreless match against Leeds on New Year's Day, acknowledging that his initial months at Liverpool have been "unfortunate."

Jeremie Frimpong expressed his joy at rejoining the Liverpool squad and aims to make regular contributions throughout the latter half of the season.

The Dutch player joined the Reds from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, yet has struggled to establish himself due to two significant injury setbacks. After experiencing a hamstring injury during the opening weekend of the Premier League campaign, Frimpong encountered a groin injury in mid-October, causing him to be sidelined for almost two months.

The 25-year-old made his comeback two weeks ago, delivering an assist for Hugo Ekitike after coming on as a substitute in the 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. He also set up Ryan Gravenberch’s first goal against Wolves a week later and emerged as the Reds' most dangerous attacking option during the New Year’s Day draw against Leeds.

After a challenging beginning to his time at Anfield, it appears that one of the Premier League’s most agile dribblers is finally gaining momentum at Liverpool.

"I have dealt with injuries for an extended period and my main desire is to play football," Frimpong told journalists following the goalless match with Leeds. "You could say I really miss playing, so I’m certainly thrilled to be back on the field."

Frimpong's time away due to injury was quite an adjustment. He is not accustomed to long absences from the game and had not missed any matches due to injury in his previous two seasons at Leverkusen.

However, the defender turned that frustrating chapter to his advantage by taking time to connect with his new teammates and even engaging in Pilates to enhance his hamstring strength.

“It was really challenging,” Frimpong remarked. “I’m not the type of person who usually gets injured. Thus, it has been difficult for me to cope, but I had my support system around me.”

“I believe it’s just part of the sport. Injuries can happen to anyone, and I suppose it was my turn this time. I might call it an unfortunate start, but I’m feeling healthier now. I feel great.”

Frimpong’s role on the field has been a consistent topic since he joined Liverpool, and his adaptability was a significant factor in the Reds’ decision to finalize the transfer last summer.

Frimpong is at ease playing in any position along the right side and lined up as a right-back against Wolves, later taking on a more advanced position at Anfield on New Year’s Day.

His dynamic runs behind the defense seemed to be Liverpool’s most promising avenue for scoring against Leeds, especially during the first half, and Arne Slot noted after the game how Frimpong’s direct style of play has already become a valuable asset for the team.

"Be it as a right-back or playing on the right wing, I rely on my skills and my pace," stated Liverpool’s player number 30. "It doesn't really concern me.

"I aim to contribute my skills. If that adds something unique [to the squad], then it does. Whenever I am on the field, my goal is to support my teammates."

With Mohamed Salah participating in the Africa Cup of Nations, Frimpong will wish for an extended opportunity in the lineup in the weeks ahead, which is essential for both the team and himself following his lengthy time away from active play.