Jurgen Klopp gives key Divock Origi injury boost update and knows how to stop Salah and Mane questions

Jurgen Klopp has been speaking to the media ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash against Brentford on Sunday (14.00)

Here are the key points from the Reds boss’ pre-match press conference.

Coping without Salah and Mane

Liverpool were well short of their attacking best in Thursday’s 0-0 draw with Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.

Many fans have pinpointed they struggled without Mo Salah and Sadio Mane, who are both at the African Cup of Nations.

Klopp knows the questions will keep coming how the Reds will cope without the pair - and he is aware of the answer.

He said: “The question was coming, yes. The only way you can avoid these kind of questions is by scoring.

“The situation is what it is. They are not here, they are world class players. Do we miss them? Yes.

“But I liked the start yesterday in the game. Even with Sadio and Mo we had some struggles against 10 men when they were both on the pitch and couldn’t create enough.

“It’s not about who’s not in but how we can do better who is in the team.

“There’s nothing bad to stay about Sadio and Mo, they’re outstanding players. Naby Keita, on this day, is one of the best midfielder’s I’ve ever seen. But they are not here.

“Last night, we didn’t miss speed. That was not our problem. They were so deep, where do we want to run - over the touchline into the stands? There was no space to use that.

“Nonetheless, we have to build on how we started because it was good. There were a lot of top counter-press moments, winning the ball back and going from there.

“We have to play against deep formations, in between the lines, there is quick thinking - which is more important than quick running.

“It was crystal clear that we drew 0-0, sit here and the only thing in your minds is that Sadio, Naby and Mo are not here. That’s not a solution, only part of a problem. We are here to find solutions.

“Last night, we were not perfect but maybe will be closer to our usual set-up in the next game and can win the game.”

Origi boost

Liverpool will be hoping that Divock Origi can return to fitness as quickly as possible with Mane and Salah absent.

The Belgian striker is now running outside and isn’t too far away from being available again.

“As far as I know, no real injuries. We got knocks last night - Robo (Andy Robertson) got a knock, Virg (van Dijk) got a knock and Milly (James Milner) got a knock.

“But the medical department told me all will be fine. We will see that but no injuries so far.

“Same squad available for the game last night.

“Yesterday he (Origi) was outside running and he looked really good. I think will not be too far away."

Larkmark occasion

The Brentford game will be Klopp’s 350th game as Liverpool manager.

He boasts the highest win percentage of any boss who’s sat in the Anfield dugout.

Klopp spoke of his pride to hold such a record - but is firmly focused on the future and delivering more success.

He said: “I’m really happy and proud of the things we have achieved so far but I don’t think a second about it.

“The next game is decisive. When you’re manager here, in all competitions, everybody expects to win the next game.

“That’s a task but that’s fine because we have a great c squad and players. It’s a fantastic club and I’m really happy about the time we’ve had so far. I hope to enjoy the next few years as well.

“These numbers of are not important to me but 350 is a nice one - better than 15 and out!”