Liverpool Explain Curtis Jones’ Surprise Monaco Absence
· Yahoo Sports
Curtis Jones missed Liverpool’s matchday squad for the 3-2 friendly defeat to Monaco at Anfield because of a hip issue, head coach Andoni Iraola confirmed.
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Jones had played in all three of Liverpool’s pre-season friendlies in the United States against Sunderland, Wrexham and Leeds United before the club’s first home game of the summer. The midfielder has been linked with a move to Inter Milan, leading to speculation that his absence could be connected to a transfer.
Speaking after the match, Iraola said Jones had trained every day but finished the previous day with hip issues. He said the problem did not appear serious, but that there was no reason to take a risk with the midfielder.
Jones’ absence explained
The Standard reported that Jones was a surprise absentee for the Monaco match, which Liverpool lost after taking a two-goal lead.
Elsewhere, youngster Ifeanyi Ndukwe started alongside Virgil van Dijk as Liverpool managed defensive fitness concerns. Summer arrival Jeremy Jacquet was not included, but Iraola said he should be available for the next friendly against Como.
Liverpool are also reported to be closing in on defensive reinforcements, with Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo linked with a move to Merseyside. Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick said Araujo was a great player and captain, while explaining that the defender’s preferred style of play differed from Barcelona’s.