- Jurgen Klopp provides fitness update on Nathaniel Clyne
- Defender is unlikely to feature in Saturday’s game against Newcastle
- Clyne made comeback in last Sunday’s U23s win over Stoke City
- SEE MORE: Klopp’s attempt to explain Wijnaldum and Woodburn illness is hilarious
Jurgen Klopp admits Nathaniel Clyne is not yet ready to make his return to first-team action following his lengthy spell on the sidelines.
The defender recently rejoined first team training and subsequently made his comeback on the pitch as the U23s beat Stoke City last Sunday.
Clyne is yet to play for the senior side this season having been out with a back injury since Liverpool’s pre-season clash with Tranmere Rovers.
The Englishman underwent surgery in his time out of action and was hit with minor setbacks that pushed his scheduled return date back even further.
Having now seemingly recovered, Clyne gives his manager a valuable squad option heading into a defining stage of the season.
He isn’t, however, expected to play in Saturday’s meeting with Newcastle at Anfield.
Klopp told Liverpoolfc.com: “In a very serious situation with no other right-backs, maybe we could bring Clyney because he is a naturally fit boy.”
“But he has absolutely no rhythm and will need a few more games to be at his best.”
Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold have been worthy alternatives to Clyne in his absence, sharing the workload as a meaningful stride in their development.
The pair have performed so well that Clyne is set to face a tough task in his bid to break back into the team and hold down a starting spot at right-back.
Klopp’s comments serve as evidence that the club will be in no rush to introduce him over the next couple of months, although the hope will be that he can play some form of competitive senior football before May in aid of boosting his World Cup prospects and giving him some momentum heading into pre-season.