Ibrahima Konate made a long-awaited return to Liverpool’s starting lineup on Sunday against Manchester United after recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him since late November.
The French defender played a crucial role in the Reds’ 2-2 draw at Anfield, which proved to be an intense match against a formidable United side.
However, Liverpool manager Arne Slot hinted that Konate might not be ready to feature in the upcoming Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Tottenham on Wednesday. Speaking about the 25-year-old’s immediate return to the starting XI, Slot explained:
“He was fit, so he played. If he wasn’t, we wouldn’t have started him or let him train. Once he trains with the team, it means he’s fit. But playing two games in quick succession after a long injury layoff is challenging.
It’s no surprise if he sits out on Wednesday. That said, his 90-minute performance today showed he’s capable when fit.”
Liverpool are currently managing a thin defense. While Konate is still regaining full fitness, Joe Gomez is out with a hamstring injury sustained against West Ham in December.
The Reds also missed Dominik Szoboszlai against Manchester United due to illness, but the midfielder is expected to return soon.
With back-to-back cup fixtures ahead, Liverpool visit Spurs on Wednesday before hosting Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup on Saturday. Their Premier League campaign resumes on 14 January against Nottingham Forest at Anfield to continue with their pursuit of the premier league title