Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate returned to France on Tuesday for family reasons ahead of the crucial Champions League clash with Marseille at the Orange Velodrome.
As a result, the centre-back missed the Reds’ open training session at their Kirkby training ground. The Reds travel to Marseille to face Roberto De Zerbi’s side, needing just a point to secure a place in the playoff positions.
While qualification is almost certain, the six-time European champions will aim to finish in the top eight to avoid additional matches in the competition.
Arne Slot is under mounting pressure after Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Burnley left the Reds without a single victory over any of the Premier League’s newly promoted sides for the first time since 1981.
The Dutchman has faced criticism as Liverpool trail leaders Arsenal by 14 points. Liverpool are fighting not only to qualify for next season’s Champions League but also to progress in this season’s competition.
Konate has been a regular alongside captain Virgil van Dijk for much of the season, but limited options at the back have left the Reds vulnerable.
The France international was not named in the club’s official 20-man travelling squad departing John Lennon Airport on Tuesday afternoon.
Arne Slot’s squad included three goalkeepers, with Giorgi Mamardashvili and Freddie Woodman providing cover for Alisson Becker, alongside teenagers Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni.
Calvin Ramsay was absent, as the Scotland international is ineligible to feature in the Champions League group stage after being left out of Liverpool’s European squad for the first half of the season.
The Premier League champions also continue to be without long-term absentees Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni. Providing an update on Konate ahead of Tuesday’s game, Arne Slot said: “Ibou didn’t travel with us because of family matters and I would leave it with that. I will speak to him tomorrow again.”
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