Yesterday saw the release of UEFA Champions League rosters, and with that managers are forced to tip their hand a bit. Regarding Liverpool, manager Jurgen Klopp actually included Philippe Coutinho, but omitted right back Nathaniel Clyne. The latter missed all of Liverpool’s preseason with a back injury and he is yet to return to full training.
It’s clear now that Clyne is going to be a long term absentee.
On Tuesday, Klopp told LiverpoolFC.com that Nathaniel Clyne will miss all of the 2017 UCL action, but could make a potential return in early 2018, should the Reds qualify.
“Nathaniel is working hard on his rehab and we have kept a close eye on his progress, but the reality is we are looking at some time still before he is back and available for selection,” Klopp is quoted by the club’s official website.
“I am told it will be longer than just a couple of weeks, so we will continue to monitor and assess.”
“It is pretty certain he’ll not be available for the majority of the Champions League group matches. If we are fortunate enough to still be in UEFA competition in the New Year he could be added to the squad then.”
Klopp reaffirmed though that Nathaniel Clyne is coming along and doing all the right things.
“The medical guys are pleased with how he is responding and Nathaniel has shown a really strong attitude, given he is not someone who is used to being out injured.”
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, which is partnered with News Now and Minute Media. Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times, NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, currently contributes regularly to WGN CLTV and Chicago Now.
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