Liverpool confirm hammer injury blow as forward set for surgery – ‘that’s not a good one’
Ben Doak has been added to the Liverpool treatment table.
Ben Doak is set for a prolonged period on the Liverpool sidelines.
The winger has torn his lateral meniscus, which means he requires surgery. Doak suffered his setback when limping off in the 28th minute of the under-21s’ 2-1 win over Chelsea last weekend.
The 18-year-old has made a total of six games this season, but he has mostly been a part of Jurgen Klopp’s squad. Doak may have played in tomorrow night’s Carabao Cup quarterfinal matchup with West Ham, but he will now need surgery and likely need a long recovery period.
Assistant manager Pep Lijnders said: “That’s not a good one. He tore his lateral meniscus, which needs surgery. That one will take [a] longer time. He is young, he is a fit guy, he is a positive guy so for sure he will come back stronger and we need him to come back with the same fire he has with the ball, how he was. He can take time and we will wait for him.”
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KLOPP IN “VITAL” TALKS WITH FSG ABOUT JANUARY SIGNINGS
JURGEN KLOPP’S STRATEGY IN TRANSFER TALKS WITH FSG: LIVERPOOL’S JANUARY PLANS UNVEILED
Liverpool’s ongoing title chase in the Premier League has sparked much speculation about potential January reinforcements. Despite manager Jurgen Klopp’s earlier statements downplaying the likelihood of January transfers, recent developments suggest a shift in strategy, particularly in the defensive department.
LIVERPOOL’S DEFENSIVE CONUNDRUM AND TRANSFER TARGETS
The Reds have been dealt a significant blow with Joel Matip’s season-ending ACL injury, highlighting a concerning lack of depth in their centre-back options. This injury has undoubtedly impacted Liverpool’s Premier League ambitions, evidenced by their recent draw against Manchester United. Despite needing bolstering in defence and midfield to enhance their title chances, Liverpool are anticipated to have a relatively quiet winter window.
The club’s transfer activity is expected to be influenced by the progression of teams in European competitions. Clubs exiting at the group stage might be more amenable to negotiations. Liverpool is exploring various markets, with particular interest in the Portugese Primeira Liga.
POTENTIAL TRANSFERS AND FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Goncalo Inacio of Sporting Lisbon has emerged as a potential target, though his hefty release clause exceeding £50 million poses a challenge. Liverpool’s interest is paralleled by Arsenal, who are also eyeing Inacio. David Carmo of Porto is another name under consideration.
European prospects like Maxence Lacroix and Lloyd Kelly are being monitored, but doubts persist regarding their suitability for Liverpool’s needs. The club appears to lean towards a cost-effective or short-term defensive solution rather than a long-term investment this January.
MIDFIELD DYNAMICS AND KLOPP’S TACTICAL OUTLOOK
The injury to Alexis Mac Allister further complicates Liverpool’s midfield situation. However, bolstering this area in the upcoming transfer window seems unlikely. Klopp has expressed concerns about squad depth, particularly with the demanding schedule ahead, including a quarter-final clash against West Ham.
Klopp’s recent remarks post the United match reflect his pragmatic approach to the challenges ahead: “It’s December, it’s the toughest period of the year… We have to get through this, open our eyes in April and see where we are.”
KLOPP’S PERSPECTIVE ON THE TEAM’S RESILIENCE
Despite the draw against United and existing injury woes, Klopp remains optimistic about his team’s capabilities: “We have our injuries… but my boys today looked ready to give it a proper try.” This sentiment underscores Klopp’s belief in his squad’s resilience and adaptability, despite the constraints and challenges of the season.
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