The Premier League’s highly anticipated clash between Liverpool and Arsenal met its hype. However, after the full-time whistle, the game concluded without a decisive outcome, with both sides settling for a draw in an evenly contested match at the buzzing, jam-packed Anfield stadium on Saturday.
A draw was beneficial for Arsenal, as it was enough for the visitors to secure the top spot in the league table, surpassing Liverpool. The hosts lost their standing as table-toppers, were denied a clear penalty, and witnessed an injury to their left-back, Kostas Tsimikas.
Who will Jurgen Klopp call on after Tsimikas’ injury?
Following the 1-1 draw against Arsenal, the Reds’ list of injured players added two new names: the full-back Kostas Tsimikas and Luis Diaz. This comes alongside the absence of their key Scottish left-back, Andrew Robertson, who dislocated his shoulder during international duty in the Euro 2024 qualifiers against Spain in October.
Robertson had been sidelined for the past two months with a long-term injury, causing him to miss 17 matches for his side. In his absence, the Greece international Kostas Tsimikas swiftly took over Andy Robertson’s place to become Jurgen Klopp’s primary choice on the left side of the defense.
Unfortunately, during the Arsenal game, the 27-year-old defender suffered a serious injury as he went off the field, fracturing his collarbone. This occurred following a tussle with Bukayo Saka, who nudged him during a duel near the sideline, sending the defender out of the pitch and crashing onto Jurgen Klopp, taking him off his feet as well.
Kostas Tsimikas stayed down on the sidelines, was immediately taken to the hospital, and was eventually replaced by Joe Gomez in the 35th minute of the first half. The club later confirmed the news of his injury.
With Liverpool without an out-and-out full-back, they will be looking to bring back loaned Welsh defender Owen by activating his recall clause in January. Additionally, a few names from the reserves squad might join the first-team operations as needed.
Liverpool injury situation
The upcoming January transfer window is going to be crucial for Jurgen Klopp, considering the number of injuries Liverpool are dealing with this season, which could impact their long-term performance in the league. Moreover, they will be competing in the UEFA Europa League knockouts.
Liverpool’s list of injured players is extensive, including key figures such as Joel Matip with an ACL injury, Alexis Mac Allister due to a knee injury, Diego Jota dealing with a muscle problem, Thiago Alcantara suffering a hip injury, Andy Robertson, and the latest additions, Kostas Tsimikas with a broken collarbone and Luis Diaz with a potential knee issue.
How will Liverpool fare for the rest of the season with so many injuries? Let us know what you think in the comments section.
