Liverpool supporters were dealt another injury concern involving Federico Chiesa just minutes into tonight’s Champions League meeting with Marseille.
The Italian forward had been named on Arne Slot’s bench when the team news was released 75 minutes before kick-off, with Mohamed Salah’s first start in eight weeks stealing the headlines. However, Chiesa will not feature at the Stade Vélodrome after suffering a problem before the match even began.
Chiesa injured in pre-match warm-up
Within the opening 10 minutes of the game, reports emerged that Chiesa had been hurt during the warm-up. Sky Sports journalist Vinny O’Connor first relayed the update via the broadcaster’s live coverage, with confirmation soon following from Liverpool Echo reporter Ian Doyle in the press box. TNT Sports commentator Darren Fletcher also referenced the setback early in the broadcast.
Another setback in a frustrating spell
Details of the injury are still unclear, but it represents another blow in a difficult period for Chiesa, who has struggled for regular starts and has been linked with a possible January departure. The 28-year-old has made several appearances from the bench in Europe this season, but even that option has been ruled out tonight.
Should Liverpool need attacking reinforcements late on, Slot is expected to turn to Cody Gakpo or Rio Ngumoha instead. Chiesa’s absence only highlights the importance of Salah’s return, particularly with Alexander Isak sidelined long term and not due back until at least March.
Slot is likely to be quizzed on the extent of the injury after the match, with hopes that it proves to be minor and allows Chiesa to return to action sooner rather than later.
