Liverpool injury update ahead of Arsenal as Jurgen Klopp addresses his Anfield long-term future

Jurgen Klopp has been speaking to the media ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash against Arsenal on Saturday (17.30 GMT).

Here are the key points you need to know from the Reds boss’ press conference.

Injury update

Liverpool have injury problems on their hands.

Jordan Henderson (groin) and Andy Robertson (hamstring) picked up injuries during the international duty with England and Scotland respectively.

Klopp shrouded doubt on whether the pair will be available tomorrow.

The Reds definitely have James Milner, Naby Keita, Roberto Firmino (all hamstring), Curtis Jones (eye) and Joe Gomez (calf) absent.

Klopp said: “Hendo and Robbo haven’t trained with the team yet. They did their recovery stuff, rehab stuff. It’ll be a late, late decision about that.

“Sadio [Mane] is good, Fabinho only came back (from Brazil) and did recovery so I hope he can train today, that’s the plan.

“The closest are probably Milly and Naby. We’ve explained with Curtis, we have to take it week by week until we get the green light.

“Harvey is doing really well but there’s still some time in between now and when he can start again for us.

“Joe is doing well but needs time, Bobby is doing well but needs time.

Gerrard’s Villa appointment

Steven Gerrard held his first Aston Villa press conference yesterday following his managerial appointment last week.

Klopp’s been in touch with the Anfield legend via text messages - but wouldn’t declare what was exchanged.

He said: “After he signed the contract, we exchanged messages and they’re messages, I would have posted them which I don’t do, because they are private.

“He said one thing, that is true, I’m looking forward to meeting and happy for him, but what I message him is private.”

Klopp’s future

Many see Gerrard as Klopp’s successor when he leaves Anfield.

However, Gerarrd admitted he’d be happy to see Klopp sign a lifetime contract at Liverpool given his achievements.

The current Liverpool manager’s contract expires in 2024 - and Klopp isn’t focused on that at the moment.

“I thought Stevie said a lot of nice and smart things,” said Klopp.

“I don’t have to think about these things, thank god, because we are in the middle of this season and it’s all we’re focused on.

“I’ve spoken often enough, no other manager gets asked that often what will happen in two-and-a-half years or three or four years.

“I didn’t think about it, I don’t want to think about it. It’s fine how it is. It’s over when it’s over but it’s far away from being over so let’s focus on that.”