Jürgen Klopp concedes the injury James Milner sustained during Saturday’s 4-0 victory against Barcelona “didn’t look too good”, with the Liverpool boss now likely to dip into the transfer market to replace the impromptu left-back.
Milner started the International Champions Cup clash at left back once again, but limped off after 40 minutes and headed straight down the tunnel, replaced by Alberto Moreno.
After Jon Flannagan was loaned to Burnley and Brad Smith sold to Bournemouth, Klopp’s left-back options are very much limited – an issue compounded by his apparent lack of faith in the under-fire Moreno.
Milner, a free transfer from Manchester City 12 months ago, enjoyed a strong debut season at Anfield, notching 11 assists, but now faces a spell on the sidelines.
“Milly didn’t look too good,” Klopp said after the match.
“Something with the heel, we have to have a scan then we’ll know more, but of course it wouldn’t be too good.”
Asked if he would now be forced into another transfer, he replied: “I’m happy with the squad, but on the injury side if something happens we have to react.
“We already have a few injuries in positions which aren’t too good for us, so we have to keep our eyes open. That’s absolutely clear.
“Until the 31st of August something is possible for us.”
The Reds have been linked with Cologne left-back and Germany international Jonas Hector throughout the summer, while Mattia de Sciglio of AC Milan and PSV’s Jetro Willems have also been mooted as potential signings.
Milner joins Lucas, Joe Gomez and Daniel Sturridge, who missed the game at Wembley as a precaution following a hip injury in training, on Liverpool’s injury list.
Sturridge should be fit for next Sunday’s season-opener against Arsenal at the Emirates, but an early knock does not bode well for the striker’s chances of an injury-free campaign.
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