Liverpool harbour ‘major’ Gomez concerns after injury on England duty

Date published: Wednesday 11th November 2020 3:08

Liverpool reportedly have ‘major’ concerns that defender Joe Gomez has suffered a ‘lengthy’ injury during the latest international break with England.

The Daily Mirror reports that Gomez has suffered the problem while training with his Three Lions teammates.

However, the newspaper does not give any details of the injury. Indeed, the source only says that it is a ‘significant’ issue.

Nevertheless, Liverpool reportedly have ‘major’ worries for the 23-year-old and fear a long spell on the sidelines.

England boss Gareth Southgate is likely to provide an update later on Wednesday in his pre-match press briefing. The Three Lions take on Republic of Ireland in a friendly on Thursday.

For Liverpool, though, an injury to Gomez represents the worst possible news for manager Jurgen Klopp.

The Reds have already suffered a defensive injury crisis this season, topped off by Virgil van Dijk‘s absence. The Dutchman will likely be out for the rest of the season with a serious knee injury.

However, Joel Matip has also spent time on the sidelines, meaning Fabinho had dropped back from midfield. But when the Brazilian suffered a hamstring injury, fringe players stepped up.

Nathaniel Phillips – who Liverpool had allowed to leave in the summer – made his Premier League debut against West Ham. Meanwhile, Rhys Williams, 19, has played in the Champions League.

As such, Gomez had become the leader in defence, marshalling his team-mates and news of his injury will be deeply concerning to Klopp and his staff.

Klopp’s options asssessed

Luckily for Klopp, Fabinho is likely to be fit after the international break comes to an end. The manager confirmed (via Liverpoolfc.com) that the midfielder’s issue was only “minor”. As a result, he could become Matip’s partner at the back.

Phillips and Williams could be on standby, though. Indeed, the former put in a commanding display against the Hammers.

Liverpool could afford to rest one of either Matip or Fabinho in the Champions League. The Reds have nine points from nine after three group stage games, meaning another win will likely guarantee their progression.

As well as their centre-back concerns, Liverpool also have worries at right-back. Trent Alexander-Arnold went off with a calf problem during Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Manchester City.

Gomez’s fellow England international will be out for around four weeks.

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