Ahead of today’s game against Newcastle United, Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp spoke to the media about just how challenging the game will be as well as the centre-back options the team has at its disposal.
It’s been a good start for Klopp’s men, having begun the new season with a draw and a win in their first two games.
The German also spoke about the importance of Alexis Mac Allister who will feature following the successful appeal lodged against the midfielder’s sending off in last week’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth.
With just days until the end of the transfer window, Liverpool have been linked with many players at the centre-back position, a place the club have reportedly attempted to strengthen as Klopp admitted they’ll need to be lucky with injuries to keep a strong backline.
“In an ideal world, we have six, seven, eight centre-halves and cover for absolutely everything. No, we need to be lucky with injuries, there is no doubt about that,” he said.
While he did heap praise on youngster Jarell Quansah, he didn’t seem overly pleased with the options at hand.
“We have with Jarell Quansah, a super-talented player as well here available,” Klopp said.
“So, in this moment we are covered but it is not dreamland where you can be prepared for absolutely each situation.”
A trip to St James’ Park is undoubtedly a daunting task in 2023 given Newcastle’s vast improvement thanks to the investment from their new owners, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, and it is a game the Liverpool manager is not taking lightly.
“It’s an away game at Newcastle. Newcastle are an incredibly strong team, qualified for the Champions League, fully deserved.
“Newcastle since last year at least, they don’t concede a lot but score. So that’s a proper game, and we tried since Sunday night to make sure that we are ready for it. That’s it.”
Liverpool will reportedly have to do without Ibrahima Konaté on Sunday who is set to miss out with injury with Joe Gomez and Joel Matip in line to replace the Frenchman.
