Liverpool defender Nathaniel Clyne was not included in the club's squad for the UEFA Champions League because he is expected to be on the sidelines for a significant period of time due to a back injury. Manager Jurgen Klopp added that it is highly unlikely that Clybe would be fit to play before the end of the Champions League group stage in December. The 26-year-old right-back has not played at all this season, his last appearance was in a pre-season friendly match at Tranmere in July.
Jurgen Klopp said: "Nathaniel is working hard on his rehab and we have kept a close eye on his progress, but the reality is we are looking at some time still before he is back and available for selection. I am told it will be longer than just a couple of weeks, so we will continue to monitor and assess. It is pretty certain he'll not be available for the majority of the Champions League group matches. If we are fortunate enough to still be in UEFA competition in the New Year, he could be added to the squad then. The medical guys are pleased with how he is responding and Nathaniel has shown a really strong attitude, given he is not someone who is used to being out injured."
With Clyne out of contention, Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold have a chance to impress their manager and cement their place in the first team. "What is positive for us is how Joe and Trent have stepped up and grasped their opportunities," Klopp added. The Reds made a good start to the season as they qualified for the Champions League group stages and secured two victories and a draw in the Premier League. Last time out they hammered Arsenal 4-0 at Anfield Road.
Liverpool are 10/1 at Bet365 to win the Premier League title this season.
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