Injury News: Jurgen Klopp gives latest update on Thiago Alcantara, Divock Origi for UCL final vs Real Madrid
Speaking after the 3-1 win against Wolves (h/t Liverpool Echo), Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp gave a worrying injury update on Thiago Alcantara and ruled out Divock Origi for the UEFA Champions League final against Real Madrid.
The Reds faced Wolverhampton Wanderers in a must-win game, with hopes of Aston Villa getting something against Manchester City. One major exclusion from the matchday squad was that of Origi.
The Belgian striker is set to depart Anfield this summer and fans would have expected him to have one final game at his home ground before the season ended. But it wasn’t to be, as the German manager confirmed the ex-Lille man injured himself in the training session leading up to the game.
“Div is definitely out for the final because he had an injury in the last second of the session yesterday, he had a muscle injury. Five days will not be enough for him.”
But before he delivered this damning update on our 27-year-old talisman, Klopp gave the latest on Thiago- who hobbled off the field against Wolves just before halftime after an injury to the “the lower part of the body”. He did, however, admit the ex-Barcelona man had a ‘chance‘ of playing in the UCL final.
“Not good, but I cannot say more. He was outside with the families and had his little girl on his shoulders, so he could walk so that’s obviously a good sign.”
Can Thiago play vs Real Madrid?
LFC fans will tell you Thiago is our best central midfielder. His passing range, vision, and surprisingly good defensive contributions are there for all to see. He is a player that can change matches instantly.
As long as Klopp says there is a chance for him to feature, Liverpool fans can hold some hope. But what will truly be a blow for Klopp’s team is Origi’s absence. Perhaps fans may not really grasp the real impact it can have on our UCL dream.
He is a man for the biggest occasions and has, more often than not, made decisive contributions when brought on from the bench. The subs a manager makes has the potential to be as, if not more, important than the starting XI he selects.
More Liverpool News
- Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool already have enough reasons to arrange a victory parade
- Transfer News: Liverpool still want Torino defender Gleison Bremer amidst heavy interest from elsewhere
- Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has clarified his previous comments on Real Madrid
Origi has certainly been our talisman from the bench but nevertheless, with Luis Diaz’s inclusion this January, it is expected that we will have two quality forwards on the bench for this all-important final.
