Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Jurgen Klopp has claimed that Nathaniel Phillips is still injured, despite the fact he was spotted in training this week.
The centre-back missed the game against Leeds on Monday due to a hamstring problem, and despite the fact he was pictured back at the AXA Training Centre earlier this week, Klopp says he’s unavailable for the Newcastle game.
“No, Nat Phillips is not back,” Klopp replied when a reporter questioned him about the defender being back in training.
Unfortunately, this means that Liverpool’s ongoing centre-back injury crisis is still ongoing, but luckily, Phillips may not be out for too long.
As we’ve mentioned, the centre-back was pictured in training earlier this week, so that suggests he’s not far off being fully fit, and while the Newcastle game is too soon for him, he should be back before the end of the season.
Fabinho played at centre-half against Leeds, so don’t be surprised if he reprises that role against the Tyneside outfit.
Fingers crossed Liverpool don’t miss him too much against the Magpies, as getting a win here is vital for the Reds’ quest to claim a place in the top four.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
