Diogo Jota has suggested that Liverpool’s game against Manchester United tomorrow will come too soon for him to be involved.
Jota was asked by liverpoolfc.com whether he would be in Liverpool’s line-up against Man United in Bangkok. But the Portuguese was doubtful he’d make it in time.
“Probably too soon,” said the 25-year-old. “As well, because I was with the national team I just came back yesterday as well, so I still need to do the last steps to be 100 per cent with the team so probably that is too soon. But I will be ready very, very soon.”
Being the very first game of pre-season, there’s absolutely no need for Jurgen Klopp to risk last season’s third top scorer. Even if he’s given the all-clear by the fitness team, he’s unlikely to be involved.
Liverpool in good shape as pre-season kicks off
Thankfully for Liverpool’s £45m man, he looks to be virtually over his injury already. Earlier in the conversation with the clubs official website, Jota shared that it was a hamstring injury that he had sustained whilst on international duty.
It doesn’t appear to be anything serious, though. He was in full training with the squad yesterday.
Otherwise, Liverpool look to be in pretty good shape on the injury front. That can all change very quickly, but as of now there are apparently no key players carrying knocks.
Calvin Ramsay has been left behind from touring with his new teammates due to an injury he was carrying when arriving. There are also some question marks over the fitness of Kaide Gordon and Caoimhin Kelleher given that neither made the trip.
That trio aside though, Liverpool can plan the next week or so with a fully fit cohort.
Some players arrived earlier than others and will be further along in their preparations. That could mean a very unfamiliar looking team against United tomorrow.
But hey, it wouldn’t be pre-season otherwise. Looking back on the last time The Reds met the Red Devils in a warm-up game and you get the sense that there could be one or two slightly left-field selections. But really, that’s all part of the fun.