07 March 2024 , 20:25
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Jurgen Klopp was once again left sweating over a Liverpool injury after Ibrahima Konate was forced off the field in the Reds Europa League clash against Sparta Prague, but the Reds boss provided a positive injury update on the Frenchman.
The German coach said that the central defender should be fine but stayed clear of confirming he would definitely be available for the huge clash with Manchester City at the weekend.
The Reds prevailed with a comfortable 5-1 win over their Czech opponents. Goals from Alex Mac Allister, Darwin Nunez (twice), Luis Diaz and Dominik Szoboszlai ensured the Carabao Cup champions return to Anfield with a first leg lead in the round of 16. However, Konate's substitution will provide a slight worry.
The French defender lasted just five minutes into the second period as he pulled up with an injury and was unable to keep pace with Lukas Haraslin. The 24-year-old sat on the floor but was able to walk of the field when replaced by Virgil van Dijk.
Klopp was already without eight first team players, with Joel Matip, Alisson Becker, Diogo Jota and Trent Alexander-Arnold among a host of absent stars. His task to maintain the Reds' slender lead over Man City will probe more difficult with the absence of Konate as the Reds welcome Pep Guardiola and co to Anfield.
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However, Klopp believes that Konate should be fine to face Premier League champions City this weekend. The former RB Leipzig defender alerted his coach to the risk of him continuing.
Klopp saw his side secure a 5-1 win in Prague (Getty Images)Liverpool's boss also clarified that Joe Gomez did not pick up an issue before being replaced at half-time in Prague. He said following Liverpool's win: "Ibou said to me 'if I do another sprint, it could be set'. Should be fine but we don't know, Joe Gomez is fine, played a lot, rotation. So let's see with Ibou."
One point separates top of the table Liverpool from Man City. However, if the Premier League giants share the spoils on Sunday, it will allow Arsenal the chance to end the weekend top of the division.
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