Liverpool have reportedly been dealt another injury setback ahead of their Champions League trip to Turkey, with Ryan Gravenberch set to miss Wednesday night’s meeting with Fenerbahce.
The Dutch midfielder is not expected to be part of Andoni Iraola’s travelling squad because of a heel problem.
It is an unwanted development for Liverpool, particularly with the team looking to bounce back from Sunday’s disappointing 1-0 defeat against Arsenal at Anfield.
Gravenberch’s absence could leave Iraola with another decision to make in the middle of the park as Liverpool prepare for a difficult atmosphere in Istanbul.
Another midfield headache for Iraola
Gravenberch has qualities that Liverpool have sometimes lacked this season.
His ability to carry the ball, drive through midfield and help Liverpool progress up the pitch makes him an important option.
He can also provide physical presence and help link the defensive and attacking areas of the team.
Liverpool have struggled at times to get their midfield working consistently, particularly when it comes to supplying the forwards with quality service.
That was one of the biggest frustrations against Arsenal, when Liverpool struggled to create clear-cut opportunities despite having plenty of possession.
Losing Gravenberch, even for one match, is therefore far from ideal.
Who could replace him against Fenerbahce?
Iraola does have alternatives, although the manager will need to decide which combination gives Liverpool the right balance.
Alexis Mac Allister is likely to have an important role, while Dominik Szoboszlai is another option after returning from injury.
Trey Nyoni could also come into the conversation if Iraola wants to give the youngster another opportunity.
Liverpool cannot afford to underestimate Fenerbahce, especially with the match taking place in front of their passionate home support.
The midfield will need to be competitive, disciplined and capable of moving the ball forward quickly.
Hopefully Gravenberch’s problem isn’t serious
The biggest concern now is how long Gravenberch could be unavailable.
At this stage, the information is that he has a heel problem and will miss the Fenerbahce match. There is no confirmed timescale for his return, so Liverpool supporters will be hoping it is only a minor issue.
The last thing Iraola needs is another important midfielder spending time on the sidelines.
Liverpool have already had to manage several injury problems this season, and keeping the key players fit will be crucial as the fixtures continue to come thick and fast.
Liverpool need a response in Turkey
Despite the setback, Liverpool have an opportunity to put the Arsenal defeat behind them.
They have won their opening three Champions League league-phase matches and will want to maintain that perfect record against Fenerbahce.
It won’t be an easy evening, but Liverpool have enough quality in the squad to get the job done.
Gravenberch will be missed, particularly if the heel problem keeps him out for longer than expected.
Hopefully this is just a precautionary absence and we see him back in a Liverpool shirt sooner rather than later.
Jamie – (The Kopite View)
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