Liverpool facing left-back absence
Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson is facing a slight problem ahead of this Sunday’s English Premier League clash with Blackpool, due to every one of his left-backs suffering from injuries.
Summer arrival Paul Konchesky is nursing a hamstring injury, while Fabio Aurelio is suffering from an Achilles complaint. Daniel Agger, who is primarily a central defender, but can also play on the left, is unlikely to be fit in time as he has a groin strain.
Youngster Martin Kelly was drafted into the role for the UEFA Europa League match away to Utrecht, but suffered from a knee problem and may miss out on the Blackpool game.
Hodgson told the club’s official website that, “Kelly has got a slight problem with his knee so that could be another left-back out for us. I don't know how bad that is, so we'll have to wait and see."
One option available to Hodgson for the position is captain Steven Gerrard. The 30-year-old was rested for the match against Utrecht, which ended in a goalless draw, so he should be more than ready for the visit of Ian Holloway’s men.
Hodgson added that, “On the positive side though, Steven Gerrard will be back and we'll be raring to go on Sunday.”
Although he is recognised primarily as an attacking midfielder, Gerrard has been deployed on the left wing on several occasions by England national team coach Fabio Capello, and may step into the breach if needed. He has played the position in the past,
but will deprive the Reds of one of their main attacking threats if he has to drop to defence.
Liverpool are currently languishing at 16th place in the league, having only won a single game this season. They have drawn three games to leave them with six points, one behind this weekend’s opponents and nine behind league leaders Chelsea.
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