Federico Chiesa of Liverpool in action during the pre-season friendly match between Liverpool FC
Federico Chiesa has been absent through injury. (Image: Getty Images)
Liverpool begin their Champions League journey on Wednesday evening as they welcome Atletico Madrid to Anfield in Andoni Iraola's first European game in charge of the Reds. However, the Spanish boss has several injury concerns to address as he prepares his team to face Diego Simeone's often stubborn outfit.
Liverpool picked up their first win of the season in Friday's 2-0 victory over Ipswich, with Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo particularly impressing. They are expected to start again, with Bradley Barcola also pushing for a full debut, while Express Sport takes a look at those who may miss out...
Injury: Muscle.
The defender has been absent throughout this campaign owing to a muscle problem, though is nearing a comeback imminently.
What Iraola has said
"The closest one is Joe," the head coach said last week. "Joe will probably start training with us next week and it has gone normally, the recovery, from a muscle injury, more or less we were expecting the time on this. I hope we can have him before the break, let's say."
Potential return date: vs Fulham (H) (Sat 12 September).
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Injury: Back.
The forward has been absent from every fixture this season owing to a lower back complaint.
Andoni Iraola has revealed that Chiesa is expected to resume training during the international break.
Potential return date: vs Man City (H) (11 October).
Joe Gomez and Harvey Elliott during a training session at AXA Training Centre.
Joe Gomez is yet to play for Liverpool this season. (Image: Getty Images)
Injury: Knee.
What Iraola has said
"I think the next one probably should be Giovanni Leoni. I think the plan is also to start training during the break, with the group."
Potential return date: Late October.
Injury: Achilles.
Iraola has confirmed that the forward remains some way from rejoining the main squad in training.
Potential return date: Unknown.
Injury: Knee.
Much like Ekitike, Iraola has confirmed that Bradley will also need additional time before he can train alongside the first-team group.
Potential return date: Unknown.