According to a recent report by the Liverpool Echo, both Andrew Robertson and Mohamed Salah are major doubts for Liverpool’s clash against Crystal Palace in the Premier League this weekend. Both players were not available for their respective countries during this international break as they continue in their road to recovery.
Jurgen Klopp will have a real selection headache in his hands if the dynamic duo fails to be ready in time for the trip to Selhurst Park on Saturday. The Reds are currently leading the Premier League with a healthy eight-point advantage over Leicester City and Chelsea respectively. The Merseyside outfit could consolidate their position with a win against the Eagles. However, if the recent history of this fixture is anything to go by, it won’t be easy for the visiting side.
Liverpool have won all five of their past meetings with Palace, but every one of those contests have been closely contested. Now that both Robertson and Salah are at risk of missing out, that record could change this weekend. Both players have been essential components behind the Merseyside club’s recent form in the English top-flight.
The Incredible Contributions Of Robertson And Salah This Season
Robertson has featured in 18 matches for the European champions this term, scoring two goals while creating four assists in all competitions. The Scottish defender is averaging 1.4 key passes, 1.0 dribbles, 1.7 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 2.0 clearances per game in the Premier League this season (stats via whoscored).
On the other hand, Salah has flattered to deceive with his performances so far. However, he has still managed to be productive in the final third. The Egypt international has played in 17 matches for the Merseyside giants, netting nine goals while providing five assists on all fronts.
Should The Reds Be Worried?
Going by the numbers, both wide players have been immense in helping Liverpool maintain their push towards the league title. Hence, it will be a massive blow for Klopp if he ends up losing their services this weekend. The German manager will be forced to either play Divock Origi or Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in case Salah does not recover in time to face Palace. The Reds will have no choice but to deploy James Milner as a makeshift left-back if Roberton misses out on Saturday.
Klopp has every reason to be worried, but he will also be aware of his side’s mental toughness even when their star players are missing in action. Liverpool managed to cope without Alisson Becker’s services earlier this season so they should have enough belief to collect all three points from Selhurst Park even if they have to lineup without Robertson and Salah.
