By Emmanuel Ebimoh
Liverpool may be facing an injury crisis in preparing for their crucial Champions League battle against Barcelona on Tuesday night. Coach Jurgen Klopp disclosed in a press conference on Monday that leading scorer Mohammad Salah is down with concussion and will therefore not be allowed to play.
“It is a concussion and that means he will not even be allowed to play. He feels OK but that is not good enough from a medical point of view. He is desperate, but we cannot do it.”
The latest disclosure by Klopp means that Mohammad Salah now joins fellow strike partner, Roberto Firmino on the sidelines ahead of the crucial match.
Midfielders Naby Keita, who picked up a groin injury, and Adam Lallana, who has been out with a muscle tear, have been confirmed not to play again this season.
Also, PFA Player of the year, Virgil Van Dirk is doubtful after he missed training with the team on Monday.
The Reds currently trail the tie 3-0 after the first leg at the Nou Camp last week.
Klopp has however urged the passionate Liverpool fans around the world to celebrate the incredible season the team has had in the campaign, encouraging an atmosphere that will be suitable to perform wonders even against the mighty Barcelona – “It is a long season and there is at least a little chance to make it even longer,” the Liverpool head coach stated.
Divock Origi, Liverpool’s late substitute match winner against Newcastle on Saturday, is set to start upfront alongside Sadio Mane and Daniel Sturridge, who has not played first team football for quite awhile.
The scenario looks a little tricky for Liverpool and Coach Jurgen Klopp who is hoping his team will turn down a 3-goal deficit against the mighty Barcelona.
“The approach we will take is that we try to win the game, if that makes sense. You only can deal with it step by step. We don’t have to score three in the first 10 minutes.
“The last five minutes are enough to score three if it is still 0-0. Let’s give it a try with all we have. That is what we have always done and we will do again.”
Emmanuel Ebimoh is a media enthusiast, loves reading and writing, and has a special interest in sports and news reporting. He is an editor and writer for 9News Nigeria.
