We round up the latest Liverpool news on Monday, as a busy week of Champions League and Premier League action gets underway.
Today’s Main Headlines
- Ranking Liverpool’s 10 best players in September
From fantastic Fabinho to monstrous Matip.
- Klopp hints at why duo’s return could be vital
A tactical explanation from the boss.
- Van Dijk wants focus on room for improvement
The Dutchman isn’t getting carried away by lead at the top.
- Salzburg boss explains similarities with Liverpool
The Austrian outfit are preparing for Anfield visit.
- Liverpool FC Loan Watch
Another Woodburn assist & Grabara’s learning curve.
Liverpool Being Cautious with Alisson
Alisson has been missing for almost two months with a calf injury, having limped off at home to Norwich City on August 9.
The Brazilian has been pencilled in to return after the next batch of internationals, possibly making his comeback for the trip to Man United (October 20).
According to the Liverpool Echo‘s Paul Gorst, however, Liverpool are showing caution with the 26-year-old, who trained with the goalkeeping coaches on Monday.
Klopp had updated on Friday that Alisson was expected to return to full team training on Sunday.
Adrian‘s performances between the sticks are helping the club be a little more patient with regards to bringing Alisson back, with the Spaniard shining of late.
It is worth stressing that Alisson is expected to be fit for the United clash, but he is being handled with care.
Klopp “Horrified” at Potential Replay
Liverpool’s win at MK Dons has been clouded in potential controversy, after it emerged that substitute Pedro Chirivella may have been ineligible to play.
There have been rumours that the Reds could face expulsion from the competition and the Times’ Martyn Ziegler now claims a replay may have to take place to determine who progresses.
Klopp is believed to be “horrified” at this, due to the way it could impact on his team’s already-gruelling schedule.
Matches are coming thick and fast for the Reds, with midweek action almost a given every week, and they also take part in the Club World Cup in Qatar in December.
Only time will tell if a replay is required, but it would be a needless hassle in an ultimately avoidable situation.
Wilder Hails “Refreshing” Klopp
Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United side gave Liverpool their biggest Premier League test of the season on Saturday.
The Blades boss has spoken about sharing a beer with Klopp after the game, admitting it was something he appreciated:
“I’m not a connoisseur of champagne, I don’t really drink a lot to be honest, but it was great to sit in a room with him.
“We’ve had a beer and chatted about the game. It’s quite refreshing because I don’t get that feel with some managers in the Premier League, which is disappointing.
“We’ve always had an open door policy here, so it is good to chat.”
It sums up what a classy character Klopp is, with such deeds going a long way to enhancing your reputation in the eyes of an opponent.
Liverpool’s Support for Everton
Everton supporters recently earned the respect of Liverpool fans, holding up a ‘Two Clubs, One City’ banner at Hillsborough, in their League Cup win over Sheffield Wednesday.
The Reds are now doing their bit for their local rivals, with Joe claiming fans have helped fund an anti-racism banner featuring Blues forward Moise Kean, after an online fundraising campaign was set up by fan group County Road Bobblers.
The banner was unveiled at Saturday’s clash with Man City at Goodison Park, as a way of showing support for someone who suffered racist abuse during his time with Juventus.
It is heartwarming to see the two clubs come together, showing that it remains a healthy rivalry.
Reds to Play at 2022 World Cup Venue
As mentioned, Liverpool play in this Club World Cup later this year, looking to add another trophy to their collection.
It has now been confirmed that the Reds will play in one of the stadiums being used at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar: Education City Stadium in Doha.
The match, which is a semi-final, will take place on December 18, with the venue also hosting both the third-place playoff and the final.
Liverpool are looking to go one better than back in 2005, when they lost to Sao Paolo in the final.
Fabinho is World’s Best, says Rice
Fabinho impressed yet again at Sheffield United, standing out as one of Liverpool’s best players on a day when many struggled.
The 25-year-old has been earning huge praise, with some even claiming he is the best holding midfielder in world football.
Promising West Ham midfielder Declan Rice has provided his thoughts, saying he believes Fabinho is unrivalled currently.
“I’d have to say Fabinho,” Rice told Spencer TV.
“Champions League winner, adapted to the Premier League really quickly, strong, powerful, sees a pass and reads the game well.”
Fabinho is already an indispensable member of this Liverpool side – losing him for a sustained period would deal an almighty blow to the Reds’ title chances.
Fan Comments