"No panic" over Liverpool's midfield injury concern, says ex-player
Written By
Ernest SundayA passionate sports journalist with an eye for detail.
Thiago Alcantara became the latest name to join Liverpool's injury list after he was taken off in the 51st minute of their 2-2 draw with Fulham in their first Premier League match.
The talented midfielder, who left the pitch due to a hamstring injury, has joined the likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Curtis Jones to become the third midfielder on the sideline.
Liverpool are currently down to Fabinho, Naby Keïta, Jordan Henderson, James Milner, and new signing Fábio Carvalho, who could be considered a prospect, reducing the number of quality players in the position, which would be a concern for Jürgen Klopp.
Despite these loopholes, former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has urged Liverpool fans not to "panic" about the number of absentees, claiming that Liverpool will only add a midfielder if the right player becomes available.
"I think most people would say Liverpool's midfield can be strengthened in terms of quality," Carragher told Sky Sports. " Liverpool doesn't panic, and they can't do that now." "If the player they want is not available, don't get him. Don't panic."
Although Carragher is confident in Liverpool's strategy, the club may push to sign another midfielder, especially given their upcoming tight schedule after the World Cup that will kick off in Qatar in December.
Alcantara, who is arguably the best midfielder on Klopp's team, has missed over 44 games since joining the Reds because of COVID-19, hip, calf, thigh, knee, and Achilles injuries, and such a record may need to be addressed.
According to reports, Alcantara could be out for six weeks, meaning he might miss Liverpool's crucial matches against Crystal Palace, Manchester United, newly promoted Bournemouth, Newcastle United, Everton, and Wolves.
Picking up just one point against promoted Fulham on Saturday was a poor start for Liverpool, and the team will look to rebound when they face Crystal Palace on Monday at 08:00 pm, but they may face a difficult test against Patrick Vieira's side without Alcantara.
With the growing injury concern, it is yet to be known if Jürgen Klopp will sign another midfielder before the summer transfer window closes in September.