Having had a relatively serene time up until this point, the injuries are now starting to pile up for Liverpool.
As they head into tonight’s clash with Sheffield United, the Reds look to be without as many as six senior players. The latest of these appears to be 18-year-old Ben Doak.
Doak was in action for Liverpool’s U21 side last night as they took on Bradford City’s first-team in the Bristol Street Motors trophy. But according to journalist Lewis Steele’s update via X, it wasn’t a happy night for the 18-year-old, despite playing well.
“Full time, Bradford 4 Liverpool U21s 0,” Steele summarised. “Ben Doak, who was by far the best away player on the pitch, limped off and looked in pain.
“Would have been expected to start for first team in the Europa League next week so this is another unwanted blow to Jurgen Klopp’s plans.”
Doak gives Liverpool fresh concern
In terms of injuries, Klopp’s press conference yesterday was actually relatively encouraging. The boss confirmed that Alisson Becker was still making good progress, whilst also admitting that Diogo Jota is slightly ahead of schedule.
Nevertheless, there was some bad news, too. Reading between the lines it seems as though there’s a chance we may never see Joel Matip in a Liverpool shirt again.
The 32-year-old went down clutching his knee during Sunday’s win over Fulham and Klopp explained that Joel could be looking at a lengthy injury.
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With his contract due to end next summer, it feels like that unfortunately could be that for Matip at Liverpool.
For Doak, things couldn’t be more different. He still has a long future in the game ahead of him. But as he readied himself for a chance in the Europa League next week, this will be frustrating all the same.
Since exploding onto the scene this time last year, the former Celtic youngster has had a bit of a bumpy time of late.
Injury robbed him of opportunities to impress in the Autumn and has led to a lack of sharpness when he has been on the pitch. Another fitness problem is the last thing Doak needs right now.
In terms of the bigger picture, it shouldn’t be a huge issue for Liverpool or for the fleet-footed winger. The Reds should cope fine without him and Doak’s potential and standing at the club won’t be diminished.
It would be nice if he could put these problems behind him though, they’re starting to become a slightly concerning theme.