Liverpool could be missing several key players from Wednesday's clash with Atletico Madrid, with Cody Gakpo becoming something of an injury scare before the game
Cody Gakpo is an injury concern for the clash against Atletico Madrid
Cody Gakpo is an injury concern for the clash against Atletico Madrid(Image: (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images))
Liverpool could be missing at least seven players for the visit of Atletico Madrid, as Andoni Iraola must consider his squad's depth with the start of the Champions League.
The Reds have had a mixed start to life under the new manager so far, as two unconvincing draws in the Premier League were backed up by a first win, which came against Ipswich last week.
Now, attention turns to Europe, and the challenge that the head coach faces in balancing several competitions at once. Considering the intense playstyle of Iraola, he will need to think about how he can keep players fit and rested, competing at the top throughout the season.
Atletico Madrid will provide a physical challenge for Liverpool, having previously shown an ability to lock down games and counterpunch to great effect.
The challenge for Iraola is only made greater when considering the players not available for the clash, with one fresh doubt and several absentees.
That injury doubt is for Cody Gakpo, who was absent from open training on Tuesday, though fortunately, it is a precaution rather than a guaranteed absence from the match.
Cody Gakpo impressed again in Liverpool's win over Ipswich
Cody Gakpo impressed again in Liverpool's win over Ipswich(Image: Getty Images)
The Netherlands international has started the season in fine form, picking up another two assists to his tally in the win over Ipswich to showcase why the Reds made the right decision not to move him on in the summer transfer window.
While Gakpo could be available, the injury scare could make Iraola opt for another option on the left, with Bradley Barcola, Rio Ngumoha, and Victor Munoz all available to feature there.
One of the forwards who won't be available is Federico Chiesa, with not only injury impacting the star, but his absence from the 25-man squad list means he isn't available in the Champions League. Wataru Endo is not available due to registration either.
Beyond the duo, there are still injury concerns for Hugo Ekitike, who is battling back from an Achilles injury, and Conor Bradley, who is recovering from knee surgery. The pair are expected to be out for another few months.
Giovanni Leoni is closing in on a return to action following a serious knee issue, but he is not expected to be involved fully until after the international break.
Joe Gomez could return soon, following a muscular injury picked up in preseason, but his involvement for the clash at Anfield in midweek seems highly unlikely.
It remains to be seen who Iraola will pick for his side against Atletico Madrid, but his options are clearly hindered with so many injury concerns.