Two Stars Expected Back Fit for Manchester United but Lallana Could Miss Out

It’s the international break, when worrying whether players will come out the other end fit becomes a minor obsession for many fans. For Liverpool this time out, though, there is less to worry about. Mostly because a few key players stayed home. Because they were already injured.

Groin injuries ruled out Dejan Lovren and Adam Lallana from heading off with Croatia and England, respectively, while Nathaniel Clyne was left out of the England squad after it was revealed he had been playing through the pain of a minor knee injury in recent weeks.

The good news is that, at least according to the Liverpool Echo, the club believe Lovren and Clyne are responding well to treatment and neither is considered questionable for the Manchester United match on October 17th. The news is less positive for Adam Lallana.

Lovren and Clyne are currently being given time to rest and recover, but the club reportedly have little doubt that they will be available. Lallana’s injury was more severe, though, and while he isn’t expected to be out long term, United might come too soon for him to start.

Meanwhile, 11 other players have been called up to represent their countries, though many aren’t expected to be called on to actually play. With Clyne and Lallana out, only Jordan Henderson and Daniel Sturridge have been called up for England—with only Henderson is expected to feature.

Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino have been called up for Brazil, but only Coutinho is in line to start. Gini Wijnaldum could play for Netherlands. With Senegal having already secured advancement, Sadio Mané’s role may be limited. Ragnar Klavan, Simino Mignolet, and Divock Origi have also been called up.