Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp delivered some bad news on Tuesday with regards to Nathaniel Clyne’s fitness.
The 26-year-old has not played since mid-July when he came on as a substitute in a pre-season friendly against Tranmere Rovers.
A back injury has been the reason for his absence, but a timeline for recovery remains uncertain.
Questions were raised when Clyne was not included in Liverpool’s Champions League squad, which suggests that the right-back will be on the sidelines until the New Year.
Klopp attempted to clarify the confusion surrounding the England international’s absence, and it looks like a frustrating road to recovery for the former Southampton man.
The German coach told the club’s official website:
“Nathaniel is working hard on his rehab and we have kept a close eye on his progress, but the reality is we are looking at some time still before he is back and available for selection. I am told it will be longer than just a couple of weeks, so we will continue to monitor and assess.
“It is pretty certain he’ll not be available for the majority of the Champions League group matches. If we are fortunate enough to still be in UEFA competition in the New Year he could be added to the squad then.
“The medical guys are pleased with how he is responding and Nathaniel has shown a really strong attitude, given he is not someone who is used to being out injured.
The right-back duty has been juggled between Joe Gomez and academy product Trent Alexander-Arnold, both of whom have looked steady in the role.
It seems that the vacancy will continue to be up for grabs for some time while Clyne works on his rehabilitation.
After Klopp gave some insight into the situation, Liverpool fans delivered their thoughts on Twitter.