Jurgen Klopp has admitted that he is unsure whether Diogo Jota will be back for Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final clash with Chelsea.
The Portuguese forward was replaced by Roberto Firmino at half-time in the victory over Inter Milan on Wednesday evening.
He will definitely not feature against Norwich on Saturday and needs further assessment.
“The extent is still not clear. It is something with the ligaments around the ankle,” Klopp said.
“Everything is possible. It could go quick or the other way,” the German added.
Jota is second top scorer this season with 17 goals.
The Reds are also waiting to see if any other players have picked up a knock.
“I have no idea who we can line-up. We should have good options.”
Chasing City
As the focus turns back to the Premier League, the Reds sit nine points behind leaders Manchester City.
They have a game in hand, but Klopp described chasing Pep Guardiola’s side as his ‘smallest problem’.
“We have to win our football games and see if we come close or not.”
Norwich arrive at Anfield on the back of a 4-0 defeat to City but were unbeaten in four games before that.
Klopp recognises the threat that Saturday’s opposition pose.
“Really good footballing side. [Norwich] will not stop believing in staying in the league,” he said.
Given the short turnaround between games, he acknowledged it will be a difficult game and called on the Anfield crowd to push his players.
Superb Salah Stat
Mohamed Salah is on the brink of scoring his 150th goal for the club.
“The numbers speak for themselves, absolutely insane. Hopefully he can do that tomorrow,” his manager said.
Brilliant Bobby
Roberto Firmino also received praise, with Klopp crediting the forward for his attitude in the game at the San Siro.
“It was the most difficult position on the pitch [v Inter], Diogo got injured in these kind of fights in the first half. When Bobby is in the mood, he helps the team massively.
“It calmed everything down, Bobby scored, we got the momentum back.”
Harlem Globetrotters?
“We are not the Harlem Globetrotters!” Klopp declared as faced questions about the strength of his squad.
“There are a lot of really good football teams and squads we have to battle against.”
Liverpool are still in all four competitions this season, and a win against Norwich would put the pressure on City when they welcome Spurs for the 5.30pm kick-off.
(Featured Image by Declan Carr for Merseysportlive)
