Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola admitted he faces a dilemma choosing who to start as a central striker against Manchester City with Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo both ruled out.
The pair picked up injuries while representing their countries during the international break, meaning the Reds’ only recognised No 9 is the experienced Lewis Koumas, who has yet to start a Premier League game.
Despite that, Iraola said he would be confident selecting the 21-year-old in such a high-profile clash.
‘Koumas has our trust. I don’t think it’s a big surprise,’ said the former Bournemouth boss ahead of the clash. ‘I have always liked the player. He has already shown in important minutes that he is ready to go.
‘Of the four No 9s it’s true we probably have only Koumas but we have some other options, wingers who have played up front in other teams and I think we will put an XI with level enough to compete throughout the game.’
Cody Gakpo was taken off early in Netherlands’ clash with Serbia with an ankle injury
Alexander Isak left Sweden’s camp to have treatment back at Liverpool
Iraola could select Florian Wirtz, Bradley Barcola or Victor Munoz in a central role on Sunday, while he confirmed Federico Chiesa may be an option – although the Italian lacks fitness having not played this season due to injury.
On the absences of Gakpo and Isak, Iraola added: ‘Cody has an ankle injury. He has had some before in his career and it’s a matter of him dealing with the pain. He is doing things individually but he isn’t ready for Sunday.
‘Alex has a thigh injury. It’s not a massive injury, it’s a small injury. Whenever he feels ready. They both don’t look long-term.’
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s game, City’s first since the Premier League’s guilty verdict was brought against the club, Iraola acknowledged the lack of clarity hanging over the English top flight is an unwanted distraction.
‘I think uncertainty is not good for anyone involved but there is the process ongoing and we have to be patient like everyone else and see what happens at the end.’
