Liverpool set to be without seven first-team players for ‘title deciding’ clash against Man Utd

Liverpool will have to manage without seven crucial players for today’s crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United.

The team has recently bounced back with consecutive league victories after suffering a 4-3 loss to Manchester United in the FA Cup last month.

They secured a come-from-behind 2-1 win against Brighton last weekend and followed it up with a 3-1 triumph over Sheffield United during the week.

Jurgen Klopp aims to retaliate against Erik ten Hag’s team after their FA Cup elimination by the Red Devils.

However, the German manager is poised to face Old Trafford with a depleted squad, as seven key first-team players are unavailable for selection.

Liverpool’s No.1 goalkeeper, Alisson, remains sidelined due to a hamstring issue, with Caoimhín Kelleher expected to step in as his replacement. Additionally, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joel Matip, facing a season-ending injury, will also be absent.

In midfield, Stefan Bajcetic and Thiago are sidelined, along with Diogo Jota and Ben Doak. However, there is a silver lining as Wataru Endo is anticipated to be fit after being rested in the previous match against Sheffield United.

Regarding the Japanese midfielder, who has made 21 league appearances this season, Klopp expressed optimism about his fitness, stating, “That’s my understanding [that he will be fit]. We chose to rest him today. Although there was a possibility for him to feature tonight, by omitting him, we increase the likelihood of his availability for Sunday. I hope that hasn’t changed.”

Looking ahead to Liverpool’s upcoming match against Manchester United, Klopp confirmed that the team emerged from their latest fixture without any fresh injury setbacks. “As far as I’m aware, no one sustained any injuries today,” he remarked. “Recovery has already commenced, and now we focus on recuperation and preparation for the next challenge.”

Arsenal surged past Liverpool to claim the top spot in the league standings following their convincing 3-0 triumph over Brighton on Saturday. However, a victory against Manchester United would enable the Merseyside outfit to reclaim their position at the summit of the league table.