James Milner Set To Return From Suspension For West Ham Clash

While it’s no reason to panic by labelling it a full-blown Crisis, it’s no secret that Liverpool have had to suffer more than their fair share of injury blows in recent weeks, namely in defense. After letting in a mere eight goals in the opening 22 games of the season, injuries to Joe Gomez, Dejan Lovren, Joël Matip and Trent Alexander-Arnold have begun taken their toll as 2019 has kicked off, with the Reds conceding four goals in recent fixtures against Crystal Palace and Leicester City.

A loan move away for Nathanial Clyne to Bournemouth has deprived Jürgen Klopp a seasoned specialty backup option at right back, leading utility man and ultimate professional, James Milner to fill in and help his side weather the storm in the absence of Alexander-Arnold. However, while 32-year-old has been game and largely up to the task, the it has been far from the ideal solution, with the midfielder receiving his marching orders in the 4-3 win over Palace with two yellow card fouls after getting repeatedly bamboozled by the shifty Wilf Zaha.

The situation was such that Liverpool captain and definite not-defender, Jordan Henderson was forced to play at right back in the 1-1 draw with Leicester on Wednesday in Milner’s absence, highlighting the lack of options Klopp has had at his disposal in defense.

However, after now serving his one-game suspension, Milner is set to throw Klopp a lifeline and return for his side’s matchup on Monday with West Ham. After dropping points the Foxes, the league leaders still hold onto a slim lead at the top of the table over Manchester City, highlighting the need for Milner to plug back in as soon as possible.

Pop the Ribena, Milly has returned.