Borussia Dortmund are an exceptional side, proved by the fact they’ve won 15 and drawn two of 17 matches this term, but our task on Thursday has just become a little easier…
That’s because the brilliant Ilkay Gundogan is expected to miss the Europa League quarterfinal first-leg with an injury, according to the Daily Star.
Gundogan’s been out for a month with a foot injury, and the Liverpool clash has come too soon, although it’s as of yet unclear whether he’ll be ready for the Anfield tie a week later.
While Gundogan’s exceptional, Dortmund have a very, very good side without him – partly thanks to the jaw-dropping attacking triumvirate of Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Marco Reus and the sublime Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Liverpool’s chances of progression will rely heavily on our ability to stunt those players but also take any chances presented to us – especially during the away tie this week.
It’ll be the first time Klopp will have returned to the club where he won two Bundesliga titles, and the atmosphere’s going to be phenomenal.
In terms of our own injuries, Roberto Firmino faces a race against time to be ready. The Brazilian’s been our best player throughout 2016 but has missed the past two matches with a hamstring injury. We failed to win either, and need the no.11 back alongside Coutinho in attacking midfield.