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Injury Update: James Milner Ruled Out of Watford Game

Ahead of Liverpool's trip to Watford, Klopp gives an injury update, including ruling out vice-captain James Milner due to a calf problem.

Stu Forster/Getty Images

Liverpool have been delivered another injury blow, as a calf strain has ruled out vice-captain James Milner for the trip to Watford. His inclusion for the next game against Leicester is also in doubt. Speaking in an interview before the game, manager Jurgen Klopp said of the situation:

"We have nearly the same situation as last week but Milly has a problem with his calf," Klopp said.

"It will take a few days. He had a scan. He felt something when he was warming up.

"I don't know how long Milly will be out but he won't be fit for the weekend."

The full extent of the English international's injury won't be known until after the results of the scan, but his presence will be missed in the heart of Liverpool's midfield. The other take-away from Klopp's comments is that he seems to be trying to make 'Milly' happen. Time will tell whether his efforts are effective.

On a more positive note, Dejan Lovren's knee injury isn't as bad as was feared when he went off last weekend against West Brom. He may be back in training as soon as next week.

"It's not that serious," Klopp said of the injury. "He's much better. We will see if he can train next week. He could be an option for Leicester."

In the mean time, Liverpool's brilliant but injury-prone defender, Mamadou Sakho, has been in full training with the team and is expected to regain his starting spot in Lovren's place. While most Liverpool fans would prefer Sakho leading the defense, Lovren's performances under Klopp have been largely without fault. When he becomes fit again, he'll be a good option for rotation during the busy festive period, assuming both center backs remain fit.

The only other outstanding injuries for the squad are Daniel Sturridge, Jon Flanagan, and Jordan Rossiter, who are all expected to be back some time this winter, as well as Danny Ings and Joe Gomez, who are out for the remainder of the season.

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