Liverpool face the fallen giants of English football Leeds United in the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup. Ahead of the game, manager Jurgen Klopp has given an update on the Reds’ key attacking players who are currently battling with injury.
The Reds will be missing a few of their best forwards as they gear up to face Leeds on Tuesday. The full extent of Philippe Coutinho’s ankle injury against Sunderland hasn’t yet been determined. Manager Jurgen Klopp has stated that the club will have a better understanding of the situation soon.
“Obviously you know about Phil – his scan is this afternoon and we will then know more,” said Klopp, according to the official club website.
The German manager also gave a positive update on the progress of Englishman Adam Lallana, while stating that Daniel Sturridge and Roberto Firmino are doubts for the mid-week clash.
“Adam is in a very good way, close to team training but that means in the same moment that he is not ready for the game.
“Daniel is not in team training, so it means then it is the same, and on Roberto we have to wait.
“I know yesterday it was still painful, so that’s something we have to wait for – how he feels today. It’s another day for us. I think it will be OK but I’m not sure at the moment.”
This injury crisis leaves Liverpool without four of their best attacking players, which could prompt Klopp to hand an opportunity to the young players. Belgian forward Divock Origi scored the opener against Sunderland on Saturday and will probably lead the attack.
Liverpool also have two teenage prospects in Sheyi Ojo and Ovie Ejaria who can fill in for the Brazilian duo of Coutinho and Firmino. One or both of them could get a start in an attacking midfield role alongside Sadio Mane and Georginio Wijnaldum.
The Reds have no fresh injury worries in central midfield and defence. The first choice central midfield pair of Jordan Henderson and Emre Can are available. The same goes for the preferred back four of James Milner, Dejan Lovren, Joel Matip and Nathaniel Clyne.
Simon Mignolet will most probably replace Loris Karius in goal, with the Belgian shot stopper being used as a cup specialist by Klopp.