Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has recently confirmed (Manchester Evening News) that the Croat defender, Dejan Lovren could miss the trip to Manchester United this weekend. In an interview ahead of Liverpool’s 0-0 draw versus Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League, Klopp shed some light on Lovren’s availability and said,
“There was not a real doubt, to be honest.
“It was not mind games but Dejan had no chance for the game today actually, I don’t think he even has a chance for the next game. He will take his time.
“It was clear Fabinho and Joel have to play tonight, so we trained it – we tried everything – and now hopefully the boys are ready.”
It is clear from Klopp’s words that it is highly unlikely that Lovren would recover on time to face the Red Devils this weekend which will come as a massive blow for the Liverpool fans. However, the Reds should have Virgil Van Dijk back for this upcoming encounter at the Theatre of Dreams. The Dutch centre-back missed Bayern’s visit to Anfield in midweek as he was suspended but he is expected to be back to start against Man United on Sunday which should be enough to cope with Lovren’s absence.
It is quite likely that either Joel Matip or Fabinho might lineup alongside Van Dijk so Klopp could have a selection headache ahead of this trip to the red half of Manchester. Fabinho has been in a rich vein of form of late and has looked quite assured while filling in as a makeshift centre-back. On the other hand, Matip has looked a bit dodgy in defence, but he is a natural centre-half so he should get the nod to start on Sunday.
Lovren has featured in just 13 matches for the Merseyside giants this term across all competitions. His season has been plagued with injuries, so it is crucial for all parties that he doesn’t rush back and pick up another problem on the pitch.
The 29-year-old’s continued absence has not helped Klopp’s cause, but Liverpool have more than enough cover to cope with his absence. Thus, it is essential that the Croatia international takes his time and makes a successful comeback from his hamstring injury within the next few weeks. For now, Liverpool will go into their upcoming matches with an intention to win all of them and continue their march towards the Premier League title.
