Jurgen Klopp is hopeful of soon welcoming back some of Liverpool’s walking wounded – but not in time for the weekend visit of Bournemouth.
The Reds were without nine injured players – along with the suspended Darwin Nunez – for Monday’s 2-1 defeat at Manchester United that continued their winless start to the Premier League season.
Klopp admits he will have to rely on the same squad as Old Trafford for Saturday’s clash against Bournemouth at Anfield.
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However, both centre-back Joel Matip, who has sat out the last fortnight with a groin issue, and midfielder Curtis Jones, missing since the Community Shield with a calf complaint, could shortly be considered for inclusion with Newcastle United visiting on Wednesday.
And with goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher expected to resume training next week, the injury crisis that has limited Klopp’s options during the opening weeks of the season is finally showing signs of easing.
“Nobody for the weekend,” replied Klopp when asked on Friday who could return. “But after that, Joel, Curtis. Thiago is not far away, Diogo is getting closer, Caoimh will be in training next week as well. (But I) don't think anybody will be ready for tomorrow.”
Thiago Alcantara has been out since the Premier League opener at Fulham with a hamstring injury while Diogo Jota aggravated a similar problem during pre-season in early July.
Ibrahima Konate (knee) and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (hamstring) are long-term absentees, while Naby Keita was injured in training on Sunday and summer signing Calvin Ramsay is stepping up his rehabilitation.
Liverpool are still to determine the exact extent of Keita’s issue, with the player set for further tests. “We still need to have a look exactly how long it will take, it's his muscle and it's not 100% clear," said Klopp.
Nunez is scheduled to return for the Goodison derby at Everton next weekend as he continues to serve a three-match suspension following his red card at home to Crystal Palace last week.
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