In an unfortunate turn of events for Liverpool, they are set to face Sparta Prague in the Europa League last-16 second leg without key player Ibrahima Konate. The Frenchman sustained a hamstring injury during the first leg’s 5-1 victory, leaving him sidelined for the subsequent Premier League draw against Manchester City. Although a return for Thursday’s match seems doubtful, manager Jurgen Klopp remains hopeful that Konate will be fit for the upcoming FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester United.
Absentees and Selection Challenges:
Liverpool faces a daunting task with 10 confirmed absentees for the Sparta Prague clash, including Ben Doak, Joel Matip, Stefan Bajcetic, Diogo Jota, Curtis Jones, Alisson Becker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ryan Gravenberch, and Thiago Alcantara. The absence of these key players presents selection challenges for Klopp, who must navigate through limited options.
Potential Starting Lineup:
In the absence of Jayden Danns, who is recovering from a concussion, Cody Gakpo is expected to take on the attacking responsibilities in the middle. Klopp remains cautious about Mohamed Salah’s fitness, paving the way for Harvey Elliott to continue on the right wing. On the opposite side, Lewis Koumas could potentially replace Luis Diaz. In midfield, Bobby Clark and James McConnell are poised to start alongside Dominik Szoboszlai, who was subbed off early in the Manchester City game.
Defensive Concerns:
Liverpool’s defensive options are limited, leaving little room for respite for goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher and defenders Conor Bradley, Virgil van Dijk, and Jarell Quansah. Kostas Tsimikas is expected to step in for the injured Joe Gomez.
Conclusion:
As Liverpool navigates through a challenging period of injuries, Klopp faces tough decisions in assembling a competitive lineup for the Europa League clash against Sparta Prague. The absence of key players will test the team’s depth, and fans will be eager to see how the makeshift lineup performs in the crucial second leg. Klopp’s optimism about Konate’s potential return for the FA Cup quarter-final adds a glimmer of hope amid the injury concerns.
