Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp addressed the media ahead of his side’s EFL Cup quarter-final clash with Leeds United at Anfield tomorrow night.
Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp has said he doesn’t know what kind of side he will put out for tomorrow night’s EFL Cup quarter-final tie with Leeds United at Anfield, he told his press conference – as reported by the Liverpool Echo live blog.
It is expected that Klopp will make several changes to the side that overcame Sunderland in the Premier League at the weekend, as he doesn’t want to take any risks in terms of their Premier League campaign – though Klopp confirmed that Simon Mignolet will start in goal.
He is quoted in the Liverpool Echo, saying: “We need a line-up that can stand the intensity of the game. Leeds are in a good moment. We need to work hard in this game.
Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp
“We need to have a look at the players. We need to listen and figure if the players are ready or not. We can’t take risks.
“I have no idea. we will see. I really have no idea what the team is. We don’t want to rest one who doesn’t need a rest.”
Daniel Sturridge looks unlikely to play any part against Leeds as he has yet to return to training following a calf strain, and while Adam Lallana will also be absent, Klopp said he is in a good way as he continues his recovery from a groin injury – which suggests he could be fit for Sunday’s Premier League trip to Bournemouth.
Roberto Firmino was substituted late on in Saturday’s win over Sunderland with a calf injury, though Klopp believes that Brazilian will make a swift recovery, while the Reds await news on the extent of the ankle injury suffered by his countryman Philippe Coutinho.
Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino in action
“I think Firmino will be okay, but not sure and that’s all. Yesterday it was painful but I think he will be okay.”
As a result, Divock Origi – who scored the opening goal against Sunderland – could be in line for a spell in the side up front, and Klopp has admitted the 21-year-old has had to remain patient.
He added: “Origi has a good attitude. But there’s no alternative to be patient. Moan every day? That’s not how it works.”
If there are wholesale changes to the side, one player who could feature is 17-year-old Ben Woodburn, who made his first team debut as a late substitute in Saturday’s win over Sunderland.
Klopp seemed cautiously optimistic about the teenager’s future, saying: “I’m not sure how ready is. There are a lot of very positive signs. Not just him, but others too.”
Liverpool’s Ben Woodburn and Divock Origi
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