With the big Liverpool-Manchester United clash to take over the Premier League after the international break, it is no surprise that most fans are worried about the state of their teams.
While Liverpool and Manchester United will have a number of players away on international duty, there are a few who could miss the game. Jurgen Klopp’s side could have the greater number of players injured it seems as the Express reports that eight players in total could miss out on the game.
While Liverpool are celebrating a great win over Swansea City, it did come at a price. Adam Lallana and Dejan Lovren both picked up groin injuries and could be out of the game. Nathaniel Clyne was another player who picked up an injury and is set to miss the United clash.
These are the first teamers who are out of action for the Merseyside club. Sheyi Ojo and Joe Gomez are the two other players who will miss the game for sure.
Casualties for Manchester United
Even Jose Mourinho’s side have to deal with some major injuries. Henrikh Mkhitaryan is still suffering from a thigh injury. Phil Jones is another player who needs time as he has a knee problem. Luke Shaw, who has been under fire from Mourinho, will miss the game due to a lack of match fitness.
Gareth Southgate, England’s manager for the time being even confirmed that three of these players will not be taking part in the internationals.
“We’ve had a few people unavailable through injury like Harry Kane and Jack Butland, and we’ve lost a couple over the weekend in Danny Drinkwater, Adam Lallana and Nathaniel Clyne while Luke Shaw isn’t quite back fit yet.”
What does it mean for the sides?
The lack of these specific players is a big loss for Liverpool. The Reds have been brilliant all season but losing out on Clyne and Lovren in defence is a massive headache for Jurgen Klopp. Bringing in the likes of Mamadou Sakho and Alberto Moreno against Manchester United will be asking for trouble.
The loss of Adam Lallana is the biggest problem that the German faces. The Englishman has been incredible for the Reds this season and his creativity and running will be irreplaceable as the Reds look to beat their rivals.
For Manchester United, the loss of Mkhitaryan and Luke Shaw isn’t all that big a problem. The Red Devils haven’t really relied on these two players at all this season. Even Phil Jones missing out isn’t as much a problem for the record Premier League champions.
Based on the people missing out, Manchester United do start as slight favourites but if Liverpool play like they have been all season, three points are guaranteed for the Reds.