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Gary Neville believes Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp will be very nervous about facing Manchester City, based on his comments on the podcast that bears his name.
Liverpool are bare bones in central defense, with Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Fabinho all suffering injuries.
Matip has at least returned to training this week, offering Liverpool some encouragement that they might be fit to play the weekend against City.
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But there are no guarantees that he will be ready in time to show up on Sunday.
And Neville believes Klopp will be concerned about his defensive options heading into the clash with Pep Guardiola’s men.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if in a few weeks they deal with that problem with Van Dijk and bring in a center back just to pass, even if it is loaned or a more permanent solution,” he said.
“I think Jurgen Klopp will be nervous because they will be more exposed. I’m looking forward to seeing Manchester City vs Liverpool next Sunday. “
Liverpool have been forced to play inexperienced Nathaniel Phillips and Rhys Williams at the heart of their defense in recent games, but both have done well.
Phillips was the last central defender to be tested for Liverpool, putting on an impressive display when the Reds beat West Ham United.
However, if Matip doesn’t make it back in time for the weekend, then Phillips’ test will be much higher.
Liverpool will have to defend much more against City than against West Ham, and Phillips will have to be at the top of his game to rise to the challenge.
In other news, Report: How Tottenham’s Mourinho acted towards Ndombele after replacing him yesterday
