Liverpool headed into the international break with a defeat at the hands of Crystal Palace right at Anfield. The loss is their first under Klopp and it saw them drop to 10th position on the log.
The Reds return to face Manchester City at the Etihad after the 2-week break, and they have been handed an injury boost as versatile midfield maestro, James Milner, is on course to return and get fit before the high-profile cracker. The England international missed out of the three lions squad for the break’s friendlies due to an hamstring injury he picked up against Rubin Kazan almost a fortnight ago.
The 29 year-old wasn’t also available during the Crystal Palace game, and he hopes to be back on time to face his former club when Liverpool travels to Manchester. Prior to the injury that made Klopp withdraw him minutes just over the hour mark against the Russian giants, Milner who arrived Anfield had featured in all Premier League game and has been a key part of the Liverpool’s midfield. Though prone to being completely missing in games at times, the midfielder has been a workaholic for Liverpool, having the most number of runs.
Milner said concerning his injury, “It’s always disappointing to miss any games – and obviously missing last weekend and the England games is disappointing. It shouldn’t be too long and hopefully I’ll be back for the next game, but we’ll have to wait and see. You never like to put a timeframe on it because it’s a hamstring and they’re always difficult and a bit unpredictable, but hopefully I’ll be alright. It’s disappointing, but these things happen and hopefully I’ll be back soon.”
Despite having created more chances than other players in the team, Milner has been subject to criticisms from some sections of the fans who are far from impressed with his performances. He was removed at the 63rd minute in the win against Chelsea 2 weekends ago after he failed to bring his input into the game. But his fitness will be needed, as he could help win the game when Liverpool face his former side in a fixture that would have a say in how well the team perform this season.