'Another option': Klopp could use Liverpool 21-year-old who's wowed Van Dijk 'a lot' as Jota replacement

Although Liverpool are starting to find form, their treatment room is sadly getting busier.

The latest big blow for the Reds has come in the shape of a long-term injury to Diogo Jota.

The Portugal international suffered a calf injury in Liverpool’s 1-0 Premier League win over Manchester City.

Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

Jota will miss Liverpool’s remaining eight games ahead of the World Cup, as well as the tournament in Qatar.

Jurgen Klopp is now without his first two picks to play on the left wing.

Luis Diaz suffered a knee injury against Arsenal that will keep him out until after the World Cup.

‘Desperate to get his season up and running’

The Athletic has looked at the players who could potentially come into contention on the left.

While Fabio Carvalho is likely to be the first choice, Curtis Jones could also feature there.

The 21-year-old midfielder is one of the best players to come through the academy ranks in recent years.

Jones may only be 21, but he’s already got 75 competitive appearances for Liverpool under his belt.

Virgil van Dijk said last year that the midfielder had impressed him “a lot”, testament to his quality.

Jones is yet to feature competitively for Liverpool this season, but he’s now back in training and should be available soon.

‘Curtis Jones is another option for Klopp following his extended recovery from a stress reaction of the tibia,’ wrote The Athletic.

‘The academy graduate, who has not featured since the Community Shield in July, was an unused substitute against City.

‘Jones is desperate to get his season up and running after such a frustrating spell.’

Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

‘Half a step closer’

Speaking ahead of the West Ham clash, Klopp said Jones “looks really good in training”.

However, he stressed that the Liverpool gem needs more sessions under his belt before he can return to action.

“Curtis was on the bench – it was clear we will not bring him on, we just had space,” Klopp told the Reds media team.

“He’s in training, looks really good in training but needs further training until he’s really available.

“He could be a step closer now after two days but didn’t train yesterday, so maybe half a step closer.”

The post 'Another option': Klopp could use Liverpool 21-year-old who's wowed Van Dijk 'a lot' as Jota replacement appeared first on The Boot Room.