Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate may not recover in time to face Wolves next weekend.
Konate has missed the Reds’ last two games, having picked up a thigh injury while playing against Bournemouth.
So far, no firm date has been given on his return. The 24-year-old had been named in France’s squad for the upcoming internationals though, so things hadn’t looked so bad. But having since pulled out, the Liverpool ECHO report that there’s ‘no guarantee’ Konate will play against Wolves.
There’s also a cloud over Virgil van Dijk’s involvement, as the Dutchman waits to hear whether he’ll serve an extended ban for his red card against Newcastle.
As a result, the ECHO claim that Joe Gomez is the man who’ll likely continue to deputise.
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Konate facing Wolves race
As one of Liverpool’s two best defenders, Liverpool will want Konate fit as often as possible.
Last season – and the beginning of this one – have shown that the France international is not the sturdiest of centre-backs, though.
Having stayed fit for the majority of his first year at the club, Konate succumbed to a number of issues during 2022/23.
He did return for the latter part of the season, and confirmed his position as Van Dijk’s preferred partner. But having had a good pre and start to the campaign, another issue has flared up.
In terms of opposition, perhaps Wolves aren’t the team Liverpool need Konate against the most. Although they did lose 3-0 at Molineux with a pairing of Gomez and Joel Matip last season.
As a result, if Van Dijk is forced to sit out again as well, Reds fans will approach the game with some nerves.
Gomez and Matip dispelled those fears last time out with a brilliant performance against Aston Villa. But doubts still remain over both. The sooner Ibou is back, the better.