• Sat. Oct 22nd, 2022

Joel Matip and Fabinho are the latest casualties of Liverpool’s defensive injury crisis

Jan 29, 2021

Rio Ferdinand says Jurgen Klopp should be banging down FSG’s door in order to sign a new centre-back this month.
Liverpool’s defensive injury crisis went from bad to worse when Fabinho was ruled out of Thursday’s victory over Tottenham Hotspur before Joel Matip was replaced by Nat Phillips at half-time.
Fabinho’s absence was chalked up to a minor muscle injury but it is unclear if the Brazilian, one of the Reds’ key players this season having been in imperious form since moving from midfield to defence to cover for the long-term absences of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez, will be fit to face West Ham on Sunday.
Read More
Related Articles
Read More
Related Articles
Matip is almost certainly out, with Jurgen Klopp confirming post-match that the centre-back had suffered an ankle ligament injury.
Speaking on BT Sport, Ferdinand said the Reds will be taking a huge gamble that could derail their season if they do not sign a centre-back, particularly with midfielders like Jordan Henderson having to cover in defence.
He said: “If Jurgen Klopps not banging down the door of the owner, Id be amazed.
“Its a huge gamble if they dont invest – either purchase a centre-back or get one in on loan – it has the potential to derail their season.
“I think its that important for this team.
Sign up to our free LFC email newsletter
Get all the latest Liverpool injury and team news as Klopp faces selection dilemma, plus breaking news and analysis of what’s next for the Reds.
You’ll also get the latest transfer talk and analysis straight to your inbox every day with our FREE email newsletter.
Sign up here – it only takes a few seconds!
“Not having these centre-backs in place doesnt only affect the centre-back area, but youre taking players out of the midfield area who are integral to this teams success.”
After learning of Matip’s injury, Ferdinand was even more convinced that Klopp would be moving for a centre-back.
He said: “He has to, surely?”