Liverpool look set to be without midfielder Fabinho for the visit of Burnley to Anfield on Saturday lunchtime.
This comes following the heartbreaking news that the Brazilian lost his father this week, causing the 27-year-old to miss training on Thursday.
The combative midfield star is likely to be allowed time away from the club, in line with the situation that saw compatriot Alisson Becker miss the trip to Sheffield United last season.
According to the Liverpool Echo, as cited by LFC Transfer Room on Twitter, Fabinho is unlikely to be at Anfield for the curtain-raiser on Merseyside.
Twitter:
· Liverpool are likely to be without Fabinho against Burnley on compassionate grounds with the Brazilian having mi… https://t.co/fsLOqtVs15 (@LFCTransferRoom)
Reds’ boss Jurgen Klopp described the situation as ‘private’ during a pre-match press conference, whilst stating that the squad gave their teammate ‘all the warmth’.
The 15 times capped Brazil ace played 29 minutes as a substitute last weekend as Klopp’s side overcame Norwich City 3-0 at Carrow Road.
Last season, the man previously described as ‘outstanding’ by the German manager, earned an average Sofascore rating of 6.97 from 30 Premier League outings.
READ LIVERPOOL VERDICT
Of course, nobody will have any objections to Fabinho missing the match, and even any future games, given the circumstances.
Whilst the Brazilian is an integral part of Klopp’s side, the players’ wellbeing must come first and a full again Anfield crowd will simply look forward to welcoming him back when the time is right.
Valued at £54million and having recently signed a new deal until 2026 (Transfermarkt), there is no understating the ace’s influence and all associated with the club wish Fabinho well in such tragic circumstances.
In terms of team selection, Klopp will have James Milner, Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita and Thiago at the forefront of a midfield dilemma.
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