Philippe Coutinho is a major doubt for Liverpool’s Premier League clash with West Ham on Saturday, Jurgen Klopp has revealed.
Coutinho, 25, has missed Liverpool’s last two matches which were home wins against Huddersfield and Maribor. However, the issue of an adductor muscle problem shows no sign of clearing in time for Saturday.
Liverpool have won only once in their five away games in the Premier League this season. Liverpool boss Klopp has to also contend with the injury concerns of Georginio Wijnaldum and Dejan Lovren although the latter could still prove his fitness, according to The Mirror.
“I would say it will be really close. I don’t think Phil is able to play, but with Dejan we have to see.” Klopp said.
“It’s not the same problem Phil has and he is not out for that long a time, but Gini is out so maybe there will be a wonder or something like this and Phil is in. But I don’t think in the moment that he can play”.
Coutinho’s absence won’t help to ease pressure on Liverpool’s form this season. They have conceded 15 goals already in the league as pressure continues to mount. Liverpool will need to improve on this along with their away record if they are to finish in the top four for the first time in consecutive seasons since 2008-09.
The Merseyside club is still awaiting the returns from injury of Sadio mane and Adam Lallana. This could be the perfect opportunity for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to receive a rare start since his £35 million move from Arsenal.
