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International boss claims Liverpool star asked to be substituted last night, he’s explained why

Photo by Pedro Fiúza/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Photo by Pedro Fiúza/NurPhoto via Getty Images
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Diogo Jota asked to be substituted for Portugal on Tuesday night but it doesn’t seem like there is lasting damage for Liverpool.

Liverpool are finally set to play in the Premier League again after almost a month without a top-flight fixture.

The passing of Queen Elizabeth II combined with the international break means Liverpool haven’t played a Premier League game since October 3rd.

This weekend’s game with Brighton and Hove Albion ends the drought and Liverpool will hope for a strong squad to be available.

Portugal v Spain - UEFA Nations League - League Path Group 2
Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images

Diogo Jota asked to be substituted for Portugal

Attacker Diogo Jota missed the start of the season through injury and has played just 10 minutes of the Premier League campaign.

The 25-year-old seems to be fully fit now though and was given a start by Portugal against Spain on Tuesday night.

Minutes are vital for Jota right now – especially with Liverpool in action in just a matter of days.

Jota managed 79 minutes for Portugal on Tuesday night but couldn’t prevent a 1-0 defeat to neighbours Spain.

The real issue comes with Portugal boss Fernando Santos claiming that Jota asked to be substituted in the second half.

Santos told Mais Futebol that he wanted to use Jota in a different position but ended up having to take him off instead.

That will set alarm bells ringing for Liverpool fans who will be fearing another lay-off for Jota.

However, the Reds attacker told O Jogo that the reason for his substitution was because he was tired rather than injured.

Jota highlighted that he didn’t have a full pre-season so getting through 90 minutes is a real battle at the moment.

It sounds like there is no injury and Jota will be available to face Brighton this weekend.

Jurgen Klopp and his staff must then decide whether Jota can handle starting the game given last night’s request to be taken off.