Thiago Alcantara: Liverpool facing ‘huge blow’ after injury update – pundit
Losing Thiago Alcantara for the Champions League final against Real Madrid would be a “huge blow” for Liverpool, according to Alan Hutton.
The former Scotland international, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Reds would do “everything they can” to try and have the 31-year-old available.
The Liverpool Echo (23 May) report the Spaniard suffered an Achilles injury against Wolves and while the issue is not severe, he faces a fight to be fit for Saturday.
The midfielder will reportedly undergo intensive treatment before the squad travels to Paris later this week.
Hutton admitted Thiago would be a big miss in the middle of the park.
He suggested the Spain international would make himself available even if there is a “small chance of playing.”
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “He gives you that calming influence. He’s got that quality a lot of people could only dream of.
“So to not have him fit and available will be a huge blow, I think. You have to look at the other way and be positive. It’s an opportunity for somebody else to come in and shine.
“They’ll do everything they can to get Thiago fit. I think if there’s even a little chance of playing, you’re going to give it a try.
“I just see it as an opportunity, they’ve got a strong squad. It’s a chance for somebody else to come in and play in the Champions League final. It’s the biggest game you’ll ever play in your life.”
Thiago has played 38 times across all competitions this season.
Nine of those appearances have come in the Champions League, six of which were among the starting XI.
In other news, expert issues verdict on ‘£40million’ Kalvin Phillips signing for Liverpool after source’s reveal