Diogo Jota reveals 'crazy 24 hours' after surprise Liverpool return

The Portugal international has shared the surprising story behind his goal-scoring comeback for Liverpool.

Diogo Jota has revealed that his call-up to play in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Burnley took him by surprise.

Before Wednesday’s match at Turf Moor, Jota hadn’t played for Liverpool since November 25. The forward missed eight games in total because of a hamstring injury. As a result, he already went home for Christmas, before realizing he was in the squad to face Burnley, leading to a frantic last-minute trip back to the club.

“It was a crazy 24 hours,” Jota told the club’s website.

“I was not expecting to be in the squad, to be honest. I was already at home when I found out I needed to travel back again to rejoin the team. But from that moment on, I just felt I needed to do this.”

Despite the circumstances, Jota shined on his return. The 27-year-old came on as a substitute to score his 50th goal for Liverpool and the club’s second goal of the game. His strike sealed a 2-0 victory at Burnley and sent Jurgen Klopp’s side to the top of the Premier League standings.

“It was great to get the win, score, be back on the pitch and get these three points. I think it was the best Christmas gift,” Jota added.

“I trained with the team the last couple of days, obviously, but I was ready for this. That’s why we work. It was just a special feeling to know that I would probably come on, and to be back with a goal is always special.”

Liverpool will be back in action next Monday for a New Year’s Day clash against Newcastle at Anfield.