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Here are the Liverpool morning headlines for Wednesday 28 October.
Klopp gives update after Fabinho Champions League injury
Liverpool’s Champions League win over Midtjylland brought a new concern, with Fabinho leaving the pitch early due to a hamstring problem.
The Brazilian, who covered as a central defender in the absence of the injured Virgil van Dijk, was replaced by Rhys Williams in the 2-0 first half.
With Van Dijk expected to lose most if not all of the season and center-back partner Joel Matip suffering from fitness problems, Fabinho’s condition will be a concern for Liverpool fans.
And Jurgen Klopp’s update won’t be hugely reassuring to fans as the Reds prepare to face West Ham United over the weekend.
“We have to wait after a scan of course. You know these days when someone has a muscle problem and it’s pretty rare for the doctor to call me the next morning and say it’s a false alarm, all right and it can go again”, Klopp said .
“So now it’s just about how long, that’s all. Now one week means three games, 10 days means four, 14 days means seven games and all that sort of thing, so that’s it.
“Yes, it’s not cool at all, but that’s the situation.”
Klopp responds to suggestions of “disrespect” after calling the changes in Europe
Liverpool were forced to fight for victory over Midtjylland, with Diogo Jota breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute of the Champions League tie before Mohamed Salah’s late penalty claimed the win.
Klopp had made a number of changes compared to the team that beat Sheffield United on Saturday, without Salah, Sadio Mane or Roberto Firmino starting against the Danish team.
However, the Liverpool manager argued that the changes did not represent a lack of respect for the opponents, whom he praised for their organization and discipline.
“If you looked at Liverpool and our situation, you would know it’s not a sign of disrespect for Midtjylland”, Klopp said .
“The line-up we chose was to show the respect we have for them because we desperately needed fresh legs. We needed every fresh stage we could get with the five possible substitutions. “
Adam Lallana points to another potential center-back option for Liverpool
Liverpool are cause for concern as center-back, with Virgil van Dijk suffering a long-term injury and Joel Matip and Fabinho suffering setbacks.
The Reds finished their last game with Joe Gomez and Rhys Williams in defense, but their options beyond these two are limited and some fans may now be concerned about Dejan Lovren’s failure to replace after the Croatian’s summer move to Zenit St Petersburg.
However, former Liverpool midfielder Adam Lallana isn’t too worried.
Speaking on BT Sport prior to Liverpool’s game against Midtjylland, Lallana was asked about Van Dijk’s absence and suggested an unlikely option as a center-back should the challenge come.
“He’s the best defender in the world, but the characters they have in the group will all know they have to give that extra something,” said the Dutchman’s Lallana.
“They definitely have the ability to perform at the highest level and still win silverware even without the sensational Virgil van Dijk.
“Joel Matip’s back is also in shape. Even Jordan Henderson played midfielder in the Club World Cup last year and did well! “
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