Liverpool defender Nathaniel Clyne featured in U-23 Premier League cup against Middlesbrouh
The England right-back has missed the entire campaign after picking up a back problem in pre-season.
His last appearance came against Tranmere in July but he returned to training last month.
And Clyne was named in the Under-23s starting line-up in the Premier League Cup clash with Middlesbrough as they suffer a 3-1 defeat.
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez have deputised for Clyne this season but Jurgen Klopp has hailed his return.
“Clyney obviously missed football! He loves it! It was a long time; it’s crazy how long it was and nobody could have imagined that, but it’s good [to have him back]," he said.
“All three can’t play, unfortunately! It’s quite specialist – so you either play or you’re not really involved.
"You can see Clyney is just a really good football player and when he’s fully fit, we will have a comfortable situation in that position.”