When Liverpool finished outside the top four in the 22/23 season, questions were raised about Jurgen Klopp. The question on everyone’s mind after seven glorious seasons was whether he still had what it takes to challenge for trophies again.
The answer to that question is an emphatic “Yes” as Liverpool are back to their best as they beat Fulham 3-2 to enter the final of the Carabao Cup. They have also comfortably qualified for the knockouts of the Europa League and are first in the Premier League and despite missing out on key players due to AFCON and injuries, they haven’t stopped.
Jurgen Klopp provides Mo Salah injury update
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has recently provided further updates on Mohamed Salah’s AFCON injury, which he suffered during Egypt’s 2-2 draw with Ghana. The match saw Salah get replaced in the first half as he is deemed to have suffered a hamstring injury, which forced him to return to Liverpool for treatment.
Initially believed to be a minor injury, further scans have revealed the extent of Mohamed Salah’s hamstring injury. The Liverpool winger is expected to be potentially sidelined for several weeks, coinciding with crucial matches for both Liverpool and Egypt.
In a press conference following Liverpool’s 3-2 aggregate victory over Fulham, Klopp said that Salah will return to Egypt for AFCON if he recovers in time.
Klopp clarified the situation by saying, “If he stays in Africa and they can’t do the proper treatment, it will just delay everything, especially for Egypt if they go through the tournament. We bring him here not because we want to take him away from Egypt but just to offer the best medical treatment. That is all we want.”
Liverpool will face Chelsea in Carabao Cup final
Jurgen Klopp praised his Liverpool side for their performance against Fulham in the Carabao Cup, securing a 1-1 draw (3-2 on aggregate) and advancing to the final.
Klopp expressed his delight at the young Liverpool team handling the pressure of a semi-final. He also commended second-choice goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who is expected to start in place of Alisson against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final.
He also singled out Joe Gomez for praise, referring to the 26-year-old defender as a “life-saver.” Klopp said, “Without Joey, nothing would have happened. Exceptional, supreme defender and he comes inside. But yeah… a life saver!”
He also praised the youngsters as he said, “Jarell look[ed] very calm. He’s just a really good player. Conor Bradley as well, Bobby Clark – these boys (the young players) are essential for what we do. It’s really nice to see how they grow every day.”
Liverpool is now set to face Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley. Despite Chelsea’s recent good form with 12 points in their last five league games, their overall performance this season has been less than impressive.
Chelsea finished 10th in the 22/23 season and currently sits at 9th place. The Carabao Cup presents Chelsea with a realistic opportunity to secure silverware this season.
Who do you think will come out on top at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final? Do let us know in the comments below!
