Jurgen Klopp admits key man is in “tight race” to be fit for Man United clash

Injuries have been a big part of Jurgen Klopp’s working life since the turn of the year and the German coach has admitted that Ibrahima Konate will unlikely be fit for the Reds’ clash with Man United on Sunday.

The Merseyside club travel to Old Trafford to take part in an FA Cup quarter-final as Klopp’s men continue their push towards a quadruple.

On the other hand, this is Erik ten Hag’s only chance to win a trophy this year and the Dutch coach has received a boost as Konate will not be fit to face his Man United side.

Speaking about injuries during his press conference on Friday, Klopp stated that the French star is in a “tight race” to be fit for Sunday.

“Mo is definitely ready. Ibou didn’t train today, we have to see if he can train tomorrow but it will be a tight, tight race we probably lose. Bobby felt much better (today). Got a knock there, a little swelling, but it’s not more serious. Ryan trained again,” the German coach clarified via Ian Doyle.

Ibrahima Konate is a key player for Liverpool

Konate picked up his injury during the first leg of Liverpool’s Europa League match against Sparta Praha last Thursday and has been out of action ever since.

The centre-back is a key player for Klopp and would be the German’s first choice to partner Virgil van Dijk at the heart of his defence.

However, the Reds coped fine without the 24-year-old against Man City last Sunday and that is as hard a test as any in world football.

Jarell Quansah will likely fill in again for Konate on Sunday as Liverpool look to continue their impressive run of form.