Premier League2 hours ago2 minute read

Liverpool Face Injury Blow Ahead of Manchester City Clash

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has confirmed that Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo will miss this Sunday's match against Manchester City.

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Double Injury Blow for Liverpool

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has confirmed that his team will be without in-form forwards Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo for Sunday's match against Manchester City at Anfield. Both players picked up injuries while playing for their countries during the international break.

Isak suffered a small thigh injury during Sweden's game against Romania. Gakpo picked up an ankle injury following a hard tackle from Serbia's Sasa Lukic. Iraola said that neither injury looks long-term, but Sunday comes too soon for them.

"Alex Isak and Cody Gakpo will not play the game," Iraola said. "They are not ready. Unfortunately for us, both got injuries during the international break."

Striker Shortage for Sunday

With Isak and Gakpo ruled out, Liverpool face a shortage of options up front. Hugo Ekitike is also unavailable for the game. This leaves youngster Lewis Koumas as the only natural striker ready to play.

Iraola has faith in Koumas, stating that the player has already shown he is ready. The coach also noted that wingers who have played up front for other teams could step in.

Liverpool might recover Fede Chiesa, who has been working hard during the international break but has not played any minutes yet as he recovers from injury. Iraola believes his chosen lineup will still have the level to compete.

Manchester City Visit Anfield

Manchester City arrive at Anfield at the top of the Premier League table, having won all of their matches so far. This will be City's first game since an independent commission found them guilty of breaching financial rules. City deny the charges and have appealed.

Iraola expects an open game and hopes the home crowd can help his side. "We are playing at home at Anfield against City who is top of the league right now," the Liverpool boss said.

What it means for the next game

Liverpool vs Manchester City (Premier League, Sun, 11 Oct): Liverpool win 33%, draw 26%, Manchester City win 42%; expected goals 1.37 to 1.58. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.

LASK Linz vs Liverpool (Champions League, Wed, 14 Oct): LASK Linz win 20%, draw 20%, Liverpool win 60%; expected goals 1.29 to 2.31. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.