Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that Liverpool forward Diogo Jota will play some part in tomorrow’s game against Wolves.
Jota started his first game since October on Saturday, playing 71 minutes of the 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace. And speaking to the press ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Wolves, Klopp suggested he could be in-line for another start.
“Massive. Diogo is an exceptional player. He needs to get rhythm now, I think it helped him a lot [playing on Saturday],” said the Reds boss.
“Yes, he was tired after the game that’s clear, we have to see how he reacted and finally today we have to make these decisions. Who can start or who should start. But he will definitely be involved again if nothing happens.
“[Jota is a] top class player, it’s great. He’s versatile, can play on the left wing, in the centre, on the right wing. It’s very helpful for this busy period we’re having now.”
Jota getting valuable minutes on the board
It’s important that Jota keeps on getting game time as he works his way back to full fitness this season. The 26-year-old perhaps wasn’t at his best against Palace at the weekend, but he’s such an asset when on form.
As Jurgen points out, he can play pretty much anywhere across the front line. Jota’s movement in and around the box also makes him a constant threat in the box.
In a season where Liverpool have lacked that threat all too often, the Portugal international can still make a big difference.
Coming up against his former team tomorrow, Jota will be keen to lay down a marker. He’s never scored for the Reds against Wolves and a goal would be his first against any opposition since last April.
It’ll be interesting to see whether Klopp decides to go with his £45m signing from the start at Anfield. The German also confirmed that Darwin Nunez trained normally, while Roberto Firmino and Cody Gakpo are also in contention.
Based on his showing at Selhurst Park, Jota perhaps doesn’t deserve a start ahead of Gakpo in particular. But in the long-run, it’ll be better to get him as many minutes as possible.