David Lynch has provided a concerning update regarding a potential injury setback for Liverpool as they prepare for their Champions League clash against Real Madrid on Wednesday.
Kostas Tsimikas was absent from Liverpool’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Southampton this past weekend due to a knock sustained during training, leading to Andy Robertson starting at left-back. With the Scotland captain’s form uncertain, it now appears likely that Robertson will be called upon again for Wednesday’s match at Anfield, with Tsimikas’s availability still up in the air.
Latest on Tsimikas’s Fitness
In an update for Anfield Index, Lynch did not fully rule out Tsimikas for the Real Madrid match but suggested that his fitness remains uncertain. He spoke to someone close to Tsimikas, who indicated that there was still no clarity on the situation, which does not sound promising.
“There’s nothing concrete on Tsimikas,” Lynch said. “I spoke to someone close to him yesterday, and they suggested that they don’t know yet, which doesn’t sound great. I’d love to see him back because I didn’t think Andy Robertson looked himself against Southampton, so we need that rotation to keep them both fresh.”
A Cautious Approach
Since joining Liverpool in 2020, Tsimikas has often played second fiddle to Robertson but has proven to be a reliable option when called upon. This season, he has started three of Liverpool’s four Champions League matches under Arne Slot, earning trust for big games. Slot has regularly rotated between Robertson and Tsimikas, and he may have intended to do so again for the Real Madrid fixture. However, if Tsimikas is not fully recovered from his knock, it may be deemed too risky to start him.
Robertson’s Recent Struggles
Robertson’s performance against Southampton was uncharacteristically poor. The usually reliable left-back had a tough game, conceding a penalty and completing only three of 11 attempted crosses. Lynch pointed out that this performance underscores the need for regular rotation in the left-back position to maintain the form and fitness of both players.
Slot’s Pre-Match Update
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is expected to provide an update on Tsimikas’s fitness during his pre-match press conference on Tuesday. Fans will be hoping for positive news, as having both Tsimikas and Robertson available would give Liverpool added tactical flexibility against the reigning Champions League holders.
Final Thoughts
While Tsimikas’s participation remains uncertain, Liverpool fans will be hoping the Greek international recovers in time, even if it’s only to offer an option off the bench. With a crucial Champions League match against Real Madrid ahead, having two reliable left-back options would be a major boost for Slot and his squad. Fans will be crossing their fingers for a timely return of the “Greek Scouser.”
