The Reds head into a crucial tie against Tottenham Hotspur knowing that a victory would severely dent the title prospects of their North London counterparts and also add life back into their challenge for a European spot next season. 

Liverpool suffered a double set-back as Benteke and Origi returned from the Belgian national team with injuries. While Divock Origi has quickly recovered from his thigh injury and is reportedly fit enough to start on Saturday, Christian Benteke’s knee injury has proven to be more serious than initially observed.

Having his say on the matter, Klopp revealed in his pre-match press conference that the club was unaware of the extent of Benteke’s injury.

“With Belgium, Origi couldn’t play because of a little muscle issue. He’s back in complete training yesterday, so he’s available.

“It’s completely different with him (Benteke); at the moment he’s not available. We have to wait for an assessment to know exactly how long he’s out, but for this game no chance.”

The former Aston Villa striker has since been ruled out for at least a month which would see him miss out on several important end of the season fixtures for Liverpool.

In-form Roberto Firmino doubtful

Roberto Firmino has switched a gear since the turn of the year with his attacking exploits shooting him to the top of the goal-scoring charts for the Reds with 8 goals to his name this season. With the Brazilian still smarting from the effects of a hamstring problem prior to the Southampton game, it is doubtful whether he can make it to the starting lineup against Pochettino’s men at Anfield.

Jurgen Klopp however conceded that a last minute decision will be taken on the potential inclusion of the former Hoffenheim man. The Brazilian was part of the contingent that visited Tenerife as part of a getaway training camp initiated by the Reds’ boss.

Commenting on his chances at making the squad, the German stated, “Firmino will be very close. We’ll have to make a decision, maybe (on Saturday), and we will see. We won’t pressure the situation — we have to wait to see how he feels. So nothing’s really changed in a positive way. But most of the players came back healthy from the international break.”

Alberto Moreno declares himself fit

Having missed out on the action against the Saints, Alberto Moreno declared himself fit for the Spurs clash after returning to full training through the course of the international break.

The Reds’ full back revealed to the official Liverpool FC website, “I started training with the team in Tenerife. Everything went well and I haven’t felt anything else. I hope to be ready for the next game against Tottenham and for the rest of the season.”

Meanwhile, James Milner will return from suspension after missing out on the Southampton game having been sent off at Selhurst Park in their dramatic 2-1 win against Crystal Palace. The Englishman captained the Three Lions over the international break in their 2-1 loss to the Oranje.

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