Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is confident regarding his fitness for the Champions League round-of-16 first leg tie against Liverpool.
The German missed the last three games due to a hand injury and played down fears that he would miss the trip to Anfield next week.
Speaking to ESPN (h/t Liverpool Echo), the World Cup winner was certain he would be guarding the Bayern goal in Merseyside:
“I am fine, it’s not that bad. I think our medical (staff) will push me into goal and if everything is fine in training, I will play (against Liverpool).
“We are all positive. I think I will be between the sticks.”
The 32-year-old is one of the best in the world, and not facing him would have been a minor boost for the Reds.
However, the tie should be in the balance as Bayern will be without the services of Thomas Muller, who is out for both legs due to suspension.
Liverpool have their own problems at the back though, with Virgil van Dijk suspended for the first leg. That leaves us with Joel Matip as the only fit senior centre-back. Hopefully, Dejan Lovren returns to fitness for the clash on 19 February.
Read more: Premier League giants plot £35million summer bid for 20-year-old Liverpool target
The Reds host the first leg while we travel to Bayern for the return leg on March 13. The Bavarians aren’t as strong as they used to be, and if Liverpool play at their best, they have a chance to overcome the German giants over the two legs.