Liverpool have defensive worries ahead of West Ham tie

Jurgen Klopp has admitted that he does have a bit of a selection headache regarding his defenders ahead of Sunday’s clash against West Ham.

The Reds get their season underway against the Hammers at Anfield on Sunday afternoon but they have a decision to make about who will partner Virgil Van Dijk at the heart of the defence.

Speaking at his press conference, the manager confirmed that Dejan Lovren will not feature due to his late return after he helped Croatia reach the World Cup final, whilst Ragnar Klavan has also been ruled out with injury.

Joel Matip hasn’t played a part in recent pre-season games after picking up a thigh problem against Borussia Dortmund, but Klopp says he’ll be assessed ahead of the West Ham game.

Joe Gomez looks the most likely to be ready to play alongside Van Dijk, although he too isn’t 100% fit and he missed the recent game with Torino.

If Matip and Gomez are unavailable, Nathaniel Phillips, who has performed well in pre-season, will likely partner Van Dijk.