Jurgen Klopp has told Liverpool’s website after the Reds beat Norwich City in the FA Cup, that the knock sustained by Curtis Jones is not a “real injury”. Instead, the midfielder was subbed off just as a precaution in the 2-1 win.
Takumi Minamino stole the headlines as he scored two quick-fire first-half goals to down the Canaries – despite Jurgen Klopp making 10 changes to his side. It sees Liverpool qualify for the quarters for the first time since 2015.
Lukas Rupp did get one back with 15 minutes of normal time to play, but it was not enough for Dean Smith’s side – who put up a solid performance against the Reds. Jones was removed at half-time, after sustaining a knock.
Klopp addressed the potential injury concern after the full-time whistle, reassuring Liverpool fans that the Reds academy product was only removed as a precaution. He deemed the injury not to be a “real one”.
“Curtis played a really good first half. We had to take him off because he felt his thigh slightly. I don’t think it’s a real injury, but there was no need to take a risk. That’s why we brought Harvey on, who was good,” Klopp said.
Klopp on Jones: Keeping Liverpool players fit crucial for run in
If Liverpool are to enjoy the next three months and even pip Manchester City to the Premier League title – it will not just be their best 11 players that gets them above Pep Guardiola’s side in the Premier League table.
With the Reds still in the running for the FA Cup and the Champions League, keeping the first-choice players fresh is crucial. It means calling on the likes of Jones in the Cup games, or from the bench, is pivotal.
If injured, the best players would have an increased workload and in turn, their performances would drop. Jones provides an important role in the side, and Klopp’s comments should come as a relief to supporters.
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