Klopp rules out player for Watford game with injury
By David Gate
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has ruled out defender Joe Gomez from starting against Watford on Saturday in the Premier League with injury.
Liverpool defender Joe Gomez is set to miss this weekend’s Premier League match up with Watford as he is carrying a small injury.
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Manager Jurgen Klopp spoke about Gomez in his pre-match press conference today. While he didn’t elaborate on the nature of the injury he confirmed that Gomez is unlikely to feature against Watford in the Premier League clash.
The official website also indicated that Ben Woodburn is carrying a knock and will not be involved either. Though the Welsh international was not expected to be involved.
The news came out as Klopp was speaking about Trent Alexander-Arnold who had a tough game against Manchester United last week. Jose Mourinho’s side clearly targeted the youngster which proved successful; both goal came from Marcus Rashford who was Alexander-Arnold’s man to cover.
The young defender was not the only player culpable for the goals but Klopp to special time today to highlight the youngster’s quality:
JK: The reason Trent is playing is not because he's Trent or he's a Scouser. It's because of his quality. His strength is a little bit more in the offensive side. The goal was bad defending but not him alone. Because of his age he will make mistakes, but will learn.
— Ian Doyle (@IanDoyleSport) March 16, 2018
For the German there is no hint that Alexander-Arnold is in the side because he is a Scouser. He is clearly good enough. It is also ridiculous to expect a 19-year-old to play flawlessly in his first real season in the side.
As Klopp pointed out, his strengths lean towards the offensive side of play. That is why it is important to have Gomez available as a more defensive minded option at right back. That will not be a worry at Anfield tomorrow as Liverpool will look to blitz Watford early and get a two or more goal cushion in the first half.
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With none of their rivals playing a league game this week, Liverpool can grab the initiative in the race for Champions League places.