BBC Radio Leeds pundit Noel Whelan has bemoaned Diogo Jota’s injury setback, describing him as one of Liverpool’s ‘most improved’ players.
The Lowdown: Jota out of action
The Reds won 2-0 away to Inter Milan on Wednesday night, putting them in complete control of their Champions League last 16 tie.
Jota only lasted 45 minutes at the San Siro, however, picking up an ankle injury in the first half and being replaced by goalscorer Roberto Firmino.
It has been confirmed that the 25-year-old will miss the Premier League clash with Norwich City and he could even be out of next weekend’s Carabao Cup final against Chelsea, although the full extent of the damage is not yet clear.
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The Latest: Whelan bemoans injury
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan bemoaned the news, lauding Jota as a ‘dangerous’ player in the process:
“Oh God, they’re losing a player that’s been carrying the goal tally while your two top scorers have been away in Mane and Salah. That was the biggest fear for Liverpool wasn’t it? Where were the goals going to come from?
“He took that mantle straight on his shoulders and proved that there is life after Mane and Salah when it comes to goals.
“I think he’s been one of the most improved players and impressive players at Liverpool since he came in. Not only with his performances but with his assists and goals.
“Those really dangerous forward runs, that instinctive-ness in front of goal as well and that quality of finishing. Let’s hope it’s not a long term,
“It is not ideal. They will assess it. We want to see the best team and the best players out there in cup finals.”
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The Verdict: New-found depth helps
In the past, losing a player of Jota’s ability would have been an almighty blow for Liverpool, but Jurgen Klopp now has fantastic attacking options at his disposal.
Granted, the forward’s 17 goals may well be missed in the coming weeks, but with Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Luis Diaz and Firmino all fit, it shouldn’t be a major issue, providing there is no long-lasting damage.
The hope is of course that Jota’s absence is a quick one, however, because he would surely be in Liverpool’s strongest current XI if it was the Champions League final tomorrow.
In other news, an Italian source has made a Liverpool transfer claim. Read more here.