Liverpool news: Pundit issues ‘massive’ verdict on Thiago Alcantara future as he’s left ‘very distressed’
Thiago Alcantara could still be offered a new Liverpool contract despite his injury record, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 30-year-old’s fitness struggles are becoming a “real problem” for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Thiago was replaced by Naby Keita in the Liverpool starting lineup for the League Cup final win over Chelsea on Sunday (27 February) after suffering an injury in the warm up.
According to The Athletic (28 February), the Spain international had a scan to assess the extent of the injury after suffering tightness in his hamstring.
Thiago, who has made just 10 league starts this term, is out of contract at Anfield in June 2024.
Whelan claimed Liverpool will not be deterred from offering the midfielder a fresh deal.
“It’s a real problem, these injuries,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“I think when you get to the latter stages of your career, it can start to take a real toll on some players’ bodies.
“He’s obviously very distressed having had to drop out of the lineup. He was desperate to play.
“But despite all these injuries, he’s got such experience and professionalism. To have that in your changing room will mean Liverpool probably won’t be deterred from giving him that new contract.
“I think he’s still got a massive amount to offer, and Jurgen Klopp will probably be feeling the same way. Not just on the pitch, but on the training ground, too – he’s someone to look up to.
“It’s unfortunate, but I think he’s still got a future.”
Thiago has managed just 35 starts in all competitions since joining Liverpool from Bayern Munich in 2020.
The 46-cap Spain midfielder has already endured spells out with calf and hip injuries this season – as well as a period of COVID-19 isolation.
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