Dominik Szoboszlai has reported for international duty with Hungary despite carrying a knee problem, and I can understand why Andoni Iraola will be concerned.
Liverpool’s midfielder was forced off during Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace after struggling with his knee. He had already played part of the second half with his knee strapped before being replaced by Trey Nyoni in the 69th minute.
The worry is that Szoboszlai has only recently returned from an injury setback, and Liverpool really cannot afford to lose another important player.
Iraola made his feelings perfectly clear
The Liverpool manager was clearly hoping his midfielder would remain at the club during the international break.
Iraola said:
“I know what I want.”
He then acknowledged the player’s commitment to Hungary, adding:
“But I also have to understand [the desire to play for] the national teams, and I’m sure that Dom, if he is fine, he will want to go. But I’m not sure if it’s gonna be fine.
“I know that he will do everything to go because he loves to play with the national team. But he was not 100 percent now when he finished the game.”
You can hardly blame Szoboszlai for wanting to represent his country. He is Hungary’s captain, clearly takes enormous pride in playing for them and will want to be involved in their important Nations League fixtures.
However, there has to be a sensible decision about his fitness.
Liverpool have already been through this once
What makes the situation particularly frustrating is that we have been here before.
During the previous international break, Szoboszlai returned from Hungary with a muscular problem. He subsequently suffered another setback against Brentford and missed several Liverpool matches.
Iraola clearly remembers that experience.
He has already warned that the last thing Liverpool need is to lose more important players during international duty. After the problems caused by the previous break, his concern is completely understandable.
Szoboszlai is an important player for Liverpool. Whatever I think about his best position and how the midfield should be structured, there is no questioning his energy, work rate and ability to influence matches.
Losing him again would be another headache for Iraola.
Hungary must be careful with their captain
Hungary have important matches coming up, including their meeting with Northern Ireland, so it is understandable that they want their captain available.
But is it worth risking a player who has already had injury problems this season?
The Hungarian Football Federation confirmed that Szoboszlai was undergoing medical checks following his arrival. Reporting for international duty does not automatically mean he will be fit enough to play, and that distinction is important.
Liverpool and Hungary need to make sure they have a clear understanding of the problem before any decision is made.
There is no point rushing him back for international football only to make the injury worse and leave Liverpool without him for another spell.
Liverpool need their players fit for Manchester United
Liverpool’s next match after the international break is the visit of Manchester United to Anfield on November 22.
That is a massive fixture, and Iraola will want as many of his key players available as possible.
My view is simple: if Szoboszlai is not fully fit, he should not play. International football is important, but protecting the player’s long-term fitness has to come first.
I respect his commitment to Hungary, and nobody should question his desire to represent his country. However, Liverpool are also the club paying his wages and depending on him throughout a demanding season.
Iraola has made his position clear. Now we need to hope the medical assessments produce some positive news.
The last thing Liverpool need is another international break followed by another Szoboszlai injury. Let’s get him properly fit rather than risk losing him all over again.
By Jamie -(The Kopite View)
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