Andoni Iraola is understandably worried about Dominik Szoboszlai’s fitness after revealing the midfielder finished Liverpool’s 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace with a knee that was not 100 per cent.
And judging by the Liverpool manager’s comments, he would much rather see his influential midfielder given time to recover than risk making the problem worse while representing Hungary.
The international break has arrived at an awkward time for Liverpool. After finally getting back to winning ways at Selhurst Park, the last thing Iraola needs is another injury setback.
Szoboszlai was visibly struggling during the first half against Palace, receiving treatment on his knee before eventually being substituted in the 69th minute.
He had played on after the initial concern, but Iraola has now admitted that his condition needs careful assessment.
Iraola is clearly worried about international duty
The Liverpool manager did not hide his frustration when asked about the situation.
He said:
“The last thing we need now is to lose players in international games. Last time in the international break, we lost three players, three very important players.”
That is a reference to the previous international break, when Liverpool lost Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo and Szoboszlai to injury problems.
Iraola knows just how damaging another repeat could be.
Liverpool have already had to manage injuries and changes to their starting XI, and the squad needs some stability if they are going to build on the Palace victory.
When asked whether Szoboszlai would join Hungary, Iraola added:
“I know he will do everything to go because he loves to play with the national team. But he was not 100 per cent now when he finished the game.”
He then delivered the comment that caught my attention:
“I know what I want, but I also have to understand the national teams.”
I think we can read between the lines there.
Iraola would clearly prefer Szoboszlai not to take unnecessary risks, but he also understands the player’s commitment to Hungary and the importance of international football.
Liverpool need their midfield engine fit
There is no question that Szoboszlai is an important player for Liverpool.
His energy, work rate and ability to cover ground give the midfield something different. Even when his performances have been questioned, his physical contribution and willingness to keep working are valuable.
Liverpool need competition and better balance in midfield, but losing Szoboszlai for another extended period would be a significant setback.
The encouraging thing is that Iraola has not suggested a serious injury has been diagnosed. He explained that Szoboszlai had extended his knee and was able to continue, although he was not completely comfortable.
The medical staff will need to assess him before any decision is made.
We should not jump to conclusions about how long he might be out.
Trey Nyoni could be handed another opportunity
If Szoboszlai is unavailable, Trey Nyoni could benefit from another opportunity.
The teenager has been impressive in recent appearances and came on for Szoboszlai against Palace.
I have been calling for Liverpool to give Nyoni more opportunities because he offers qualities that have been missing from the midfield.
However, this is another reason why Liverpool need to manage their young players carefully. Nyoni should be given opportunities because he deserves them, not because the senior squad is constantly being weakened by injuries.
Iraola needs options, and hopefully Szoboszlai’s problem is only minor.
The Manchester United game is looming
Liverpool now have an important period ahead, with Manchester United visiting Anfield on November 22.
After the defeats against Arsenal and Fenerbahçe, the Palace victory was exactly what the team needed.
The last thing we want is to return from the international break with another injury crisis.
Szoboszlai needs to be assessed properly, and if he is not fit enough to represent Hungary, I hope everyone involved makes the sensible decision.
International football is important, and I understand why players want to represent their countries. But Liverpool also have a responsibility to protect their players, particularly when they are already carrying an injury concern.
My verdict: Let Szoboszlai recover properly
Iraola’s comments suggest he is not particularly keen on seeing Szoboszlai risk his fitness over the next fortnight.
I don’t blame him.
Liverpool have already lost three important players during an international break, and we cannot afford another situation where players return injured just as the season is reaching another important stage.
If Szoboszlai is fit, he should be available for Hungary. If he isn’t, there should be no pressure to play.
The most important thing is having him fit and ready for Liverpool’s next fixtures.
Iraola knows what he wants. Hopefully the medical assessment gives him the answer he is looking for.
By Jamie
(The Kopite View)
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