Jurgen Klopp and the Liverpool team are preparing for a crucial FA Cup Round 3 match against Arsenal. Unfortunately, their star defender Virgil van Dijk will not be participating in the game. Following the surprising update, the Liverpool manager has provided some insight into the situation, stating that the Dutch defender’s absence is due to his illness.
According to recent reports, it was indicated that Virgil van Dijk had fallen ill prior to the match against Arsenal. Jurgen Klopp has now explained his decision to exclude him from the lineup and has also provided updates on the player’s health status.
‘Today was no chance’ for Virgil Van Dijk, claims Jurgen Klopp
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In the press conference before the match, Jurgen Klopp was unsurprisingly asked about the absence of the Dutch defender. The German manager revealed, “Virgil is Ill. We will see how he feels tomorrow.” The 56-year-old also showed uncertainty regarding his participation in the upcoming game.
Klopp on Van Dijk:
“Virgil is Ill. We will see how he feels tomorrow. We need to see if he can make the next one. But today was no chance.”
— The Anfield Talk (@TheAnfieldTalk) January 7, 2024
In his words, “We need to see if he can make the next one. But today was no chance.” Following the FA Cup match, Liverpool has an important Carabao Cup semi-final against Fulham. Klopp will certainly be hoping for the return of Virgil van Dijk in good health for that fixture.
Additionally, Jurgen Klopp is facing the absence of another crucial player, Mohamed Salah. The talented winger is currently with Egypt in preparation for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and could potentially miss up to four matches if his national team makes it to the finals. On top of this, The Reds have been plagued with several injury setbacks affecting his squad.
Liverpool facing a huge setback with an astounding 6 injuries
Liverpool is currently facing challenges with injuries to key players. A total of 6 players are currently sidelined due to various injuries. Joel Matip unfortunately is currently out of action due to a season-ending knee injury. Additionally, Stefan Bajcetic Maquieira and Andy Robertson will not be available for the team this month due to an adductor injury and shoulder dislocation respectively.
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Thiago Alcantara is another player who has been out of action due to a hip injury, but he can potentially make a return this month. Also, some recent injury worries, include that of Dominik Szoboszlai and Konstantinos Tsimikas, who have suffered a thigh and shoulder injury, respectively.
Although Szoboszlai may make an early return this month, no potential date of return has been determined for Tsimikas. Given these circumstances, it is evident that the Premier League table leaders are currently facing some huge obstacles.
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