Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is facing mounting concerns over his squad’s injury crisis, especially with left-back options dwindling after Kostas Tsimikas joined the sidelined list due to a broken collarbone. With Andy Robertson also out with a shoulder injury, Klopp revealed plans to deploy right-footed Joe Gomez as a makeshift left-back until Robertson’s return.
Klopp emphasised the need to protect Gomez, stating, “We have to make sure we put him in cotton wool and… always ready for the games.”
Liverpool, standing second in the Premier League after a 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Anfield, is set to face 19th-placed Burnley, whom Klopp expects to offer a formidable challenge. Klopp acknowledged Burnley’s strength, noting, “I have watched quite a few Burnley games and I am pretty impressed by what they are doing.”
Meanwhile, in a shocking turn of events on Christmas Eve, Wolverhampton Wanderers secured a 2-1 win against Chelsea in the Premier League. Mario Lemina and Matt Doherty netted crucial goals in the second half, further denting Chelsea’s away record.
Mauricio Pochettino expressed disappointment, acknowledging his team’s lack of clinical finishing, particularly highlighting a missed opportunity by Raheem Sterling. Lemina, thrilled with the win, lauded the home support, while Doherty emphasised the importance of the victory and the spirited atmosphere generated by the fans.
In a groundbreaking moment for the Premier League, Burnley manager Vincent Kompany praised referee Rebecca Welch, who officiated his team’s 2-0 win against Fulham, becoming the first female referee in the league’s history.
Kompany commended Welch, expressing his delight to be a part of the milestone and highlighting the significance of merit-based recognition for referees.
Conversely, former Manchester United players Paul Scholes and Gary Neville expressed disappointment following the team’s 2-0 defeat to West Ham United. United’s struggles in front of goal and their inability to maintain consistency in performances left Scholes criticising the team’s lack of threat and creativity.
Neville echoed similar sentiments, condemning the team’s perpetual inconsistency and describing it as a recurring issue that has persisted across different managerial tenures.
As the Premier League unfolds, Liverpool grapples with defensive setbacks, while shock results unsettle established teams, leading to introspection and concerns across various fronts. Klopp’s managerial tactics and United’s persistent inconsistencies remain focal points ahead of critical clashes in the league.
