Liverpool FC have been suffering from a number of injuries to the players in their squad, but are now ready to welcome Dejan Lovren back into their defence, for the FA Cup tie against West Ham United.
The Reds have been having a difficult time in defence with Kolo Toure being the only fit centreback in the squad until they signed Steven Caulker on loan. Now however the Croatian defender seems to have returned to fitness, as manager Jurgen Klopp said that Lovren would play in the game on Saturday.
“Dejan, it’s good news. Dejan was on the bench against Stoke and is now back,” Klopp was quoted saying on Liverpool FC’s official website.
Caulker, who did not take part in the League Cup semi final against Stoke City because he was cup-tied, is now free to take part in the West Ham game, where he is set to partner Lovren in the heart of the Reds defence.
“Steve Caulker is not injured but he couldn’t play the last game and now he’s available for the FA Cup. He’s like a new player,” said Klopp.
Coutinho, Henderson still injured
The statuses of Philippe Coutinho and Jordan Henderson are a bit of a bittersweet news for the Liverpool FC fans, as both the players are close to returning to first team action. The Reds have often been found wanting in recent matches, and the duo of Coutinho and Henderson would certainly help them add more strength to the lineup. However, the fans must wait a bit longer to see the two back on the field.
“[Coutinho] is close to returning to training but he’s not in the team training [yet]. He [will finish] his last two-three sessions with rehab and then he will be back on the pitch with us,” said Klopp.
“Hendo [Hemderson] can be an option. He did really well for the team in a difficult time with a long-term injury, still having problems, only pain but it’s always pain,” he continued.
Clyne still a doubtful case
The Reds have been lacking in defence, and Klopp would like to have his usual back-four back on the field as soon as possible. However, he is still not sure whether Nathaniel Clyne would be available for the match or not, as the fullback recovers from a knee injury.
“Nathaniel, possibly, but we are not sure. He is much better, it was knee against knee and that’s really painful,” said Klopp. “There’s no doubt about the [durability] of Clyney. I asked him, ‘One is no pain, ten is big, big pain – where are we?’ and he said seven!”
