Jurgen Klopp is anxiously awaiting updates on the fitness of several of his South American players following their World Cup qualifiers as Liverpool prepares for their Premier League clash against Wolves.
Liverpool has had a string of challenging results in early kick-off games, which have coincidentally not been Klopp preferred time for Premier League matches.
This trend includes draws, defeats, and a lackluster performance against top teams. Additionally, Liverpool’s last match against Manchester City was an early game following an international break, which ended in a disappointing loss.
Klopp’s concern now lies with the international commitments of some of his squad members who are likely to return to Liverpool just two days before their match against Wolves. Klopp is not only hoping to avoid injuries but also to manage player fatigue and jet lag.
Four Liverpool players – Alisson Becker, Alexis Mac Allister, Luis Diaz, and Darwin Nunez – are expected to return after representing their countries in World Cup qualifiers. These players are crucial to Liverpool’s strong start to the season, with 10 points from 12.
Despite their roles and minutes played, all four will participate in away matches late into Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning. Mac Allister will be with Argentina in Bolivia, Nunez with Uruguay in Ecuador, Alisson with Brazil in Peru, and Diaz with Colombia in Chile.
Diaz faces the longest journey back to Merseyside, covering around 7,200 miles. Alisson will travel approximately 6,250 miles, Mac Allister slightly less, and Nunez around 5,600 miles.
Klopp’s main concern is the physical condition of these South American players upon their return, given the tight schedule. The clock is already ticking, and Klopp is hoping for the best.
