Liverpool supporters will be keeping a very close eye on Dominik Szoboszlai after the midfielder revealed just how close he came to missing Hungary’s latest international fixture.
The Reds midfielder has been struggling with an injury problem, and his latest comments suggest he is still not completely comfortable physically.
Speaking after Hungary’s 2-0 victory over Georgia, Szoboszlai admitted that he almost withdrew during the warm-up after feeling the injury when taking a shot.
He said:
“During the warm-up I was close to saying that I wouldn’t be able to play after all. I felt the injury during one of my shots. But I thought to myself that, having come this far, I wasn’t going to let the team down. So I tried to give everything I had, as best as I could.”
He then added:
“My leg felt good, but now the treatment process starts all over again, and I need to be ready for Tuesday.”
Those comments will certainly concern Andoni Iraola.
Szoboszlai Is Playing Through the Pain
There is no questioning Szoboszlai’s commitment to Hungary.
He clearly wanted to represent his country and didn’t want to let his teammates down after travelling and preparing for the fixture.
He also managed to contribute an assist in the 2-0 victory over Georgia.
However, Liverpool will be looking at the bigger picture.
The midfielder has already had a difficult spell with injuries this season, and the last thing Iraola needs is another setback just as the Reds prepare for a crucial run of fixtures.
The fact that Szoboszlai felt something during the warm-up, to the point where he considered pulling out, is concerning.
His leg may have felt better during the match, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the problem has disappeared.
Why Liverpool Cannot Afford to Lose Him Again
Liverpool’s midfield has already been under scrutiny this season, particularly with questions over the balance and depth available to Iraola.
Szoboszlai offers energy, intensity and the ability to cover ground. Even when his performances haven’t been at their best, his contribution to the team is important.
Trey Nyoni’s emergence has been encouraging, and Alexis Mac Allister remains a key figure, but Liverpool cannot afford to keep losing experienced midfield options.
There is also the wider issue of managing Szoboszlai’s workload.
He has already missed time this season, and repeatedly rushing him back could make matters worse.
Manchester United Game Looms Large
The timing of this injury concern is particularly frustrating.
Liverpool face Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday, November 22, and Szoboszlai’s availability will be a major talking point.
I would much rather see him miss Hungary’s Tuesday fixture if there is any genuine risk of aggravating the problem.
International football is important, and nobody should question his desire to represent his country. But Liverpool are paying his wages, and the club need him fit for the remainder of the season.
There is no point forcing him through another game if it leaves him unavailable for several weeks afterwards.
Iraola Must Be Careful With His Midfielder
My biggest concern is that Szoboszlai appears to be pushing himself to play when he isn’t fully comfortable.
His commitment is admirable, but Liverpool need to protect him.
The medical teams must assess how he responds after the Georgia match, and there should be no pressure to take unnecessary risks against Northern Ireland.
My verdict? Liverpool should put Szoboszlai’s long-term fitness ahead of one international appearance.
If he is fit for Manchester United, brilliant. But if he needs more treatment and recovery time, so be it.
We’ve already seen how quickly an injury setback can disrupt a player’s season.
The last thing Liverpool need is another one.
By Jamie (The Kopite View)
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