Andy Robertson will miss the opening fixture of the Premier League
Liverpool will be kicking off their 2021-22 Premier League campaign in the coming weekend on the 14th of August against Norwich City. However, they will be without the service of their left-back Andy Robertson, who is ruled out for the initial match owing to an ankle injury.
The Scottish international appeared to go over his right ankle while blocking a cross just before halftime in a Pre-Season friendly against Athletico Bilbao. Thus, he had to be helped off the pitch as he limped down the tunnel. After the match, Robertson had undergone a scan to reveal the extent of his ankle injury. Later on, the defender twitted about the results of the scan saying
“Scan suggests nothing too major but there’s some ligament damage which will need to mend,”
Although Robertson looks less concerned about the ligament damage but it will surely take some time until he is finally back to full fitness.
Who could replace Andy Robertson for the initial fixtures?
Liverpool will be hoping to not undergo a similar situation as of the last season. While facing an injury crises in the previous season, the Reds were lacking depth in their squad. However, this time around the Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is keen on keeping a back-up ready for every position.
Providing more opportunities to the youngsters in the Pre-Season friendlies, Kloop is preparing the young lads for unforeseen situations in advance. During the Pre-Season friendly Klopp looked quite impressed with Kostas Tsimikas.
“Kostas was really, really good today, I have to say. That’s true,”. Said Jurgen Klopp the club’s official website.
The 25-year-old will probably be thought of as the most appropriate replacement for Robertson. However, Tsimikas has only managed just six Premier League minutes in his debut season last year. Therefore, it will be a challenge for the youngster to settle with the first team immediately.
When could Robertson return?
Liverpool will be welcoming Chelsea to Anfield at the end of this month (August). Thus, Robertson would be eager to make his presence felt against the European Champions and could probably target to return before that.
Following the ligament damage, the more realistic date could be around the 12th of September. When Jurgen Klopp’s side will be getting ready to travel to Elland Road to face Leeds United.
