Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp’s has revealed Trent Alexander-Arnold’s injury isn’t as serious as Joel Matip’s, but the right-back will still miss Sunday’s clash with Manchester United.
The Reds picked up injuries to three key players – Alexander-Arnold, Matip and James Milner – against Napoli on Tuesday.
How bad is Liverpool’s injury crisis? Five things you need to know:
- Joe Gomez was already on Liverpool’s injury list before the Napoli game after fracturing his left leg last week against Burnley.
- Matip has been ruled out for up to six weeks with a fractured collar-bone.
- James Milner left the pitch on Tuesday, but it appears he was only suffering with cramp and is available for this weekend.
- Alexander-Arnold has an ankle problem that will see him miss the Man United match, but Klopp says he will be back before Matip.
- Liverpool are down to just two fit centre-backs: Virgin van Dijk and Dejan Lovren.
Tuesday was ultimately a successful night for Liverpool, who beat Napoli 1-0 thanks to Mohamed Salah’s first half goal and booked their place in the Champions League knockout stages.
However, a fresh batch of injuries means the Merseysiders are down to defensive bare-bones for Sunday’s encounter with fierce rivals Manchester United.
In his press conference on Friday, Klopp revealed the extent of Alexander Arnold’s ankle problem.
“It’s our situation. Crisis is only a crisis if you feel it,” Klopp said (via the Liverpool Echo).
“Trent is not as serious as the other two boys (Matip and Gomez), but it’s not top class news! It was unlucky as well, like with Joel. It was in the last seconds of the game.”
Who will step in for Liverpool at right-back?
At times this season, Gomez has stepped in for Alexander-Arnold at right-back. But with both players ruled out of this weekend’s game, Klopp will have to think carefully about who he picks in the position.
Nathaniel Clyne has been back in training this week and could play a part, although Klopp has doubts the 27-year-old can handle 90 minutes.
“He was unfortunately injured in past two, three weeks but luckily he’s back in full training for three or four days,” said the German.
“Is he ready for 90 minutes? I don’t know. But is he ready for Sunday? Yeah.
“Clyne is a very experienced player – it’s not ideal and we won’t rush him.
Klopp also mentioned two youngsters, Rafa Camacho and Curtis Jones, who could step in if needed.
He added: “Rafa Camacho played outstandingly in pre-season and Curtis Jones too.
“We have other options and as long as we have options everything is fine. We have to be creative if not but all fine for the moment.”
The post Jurgen Klopp reveals team news ahead of Liverpool v Man Utd appeared first on Squawka News.
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