Klopp updates on Sturridge and Flanagan

Jurgen Klopp wearily delivered his latest update on the still-unavailable Daniel Sturridge but confirmed that Jon Flanagan will be on the bench for the FA Cup tie with Exeter.

Asked whether Sturridge – who has featured in only five Premier League games this season – could figure against Exeter, Klopp replied: : “No. No chance for Daniel.

“He has had a break in training because of some issues. He’s now back training but losing time. But no team training since Newcastle. I don’t know how long it is. That’s not a situation we can think about him.”

The German did have good news about Flanagan, who has not played first-team football since the end of the 2013/14 season when he was a regular in the Liverpool side that almost won the title.

“Jon is in a really good way and we’re really happy about this,” said Klopp.

“The medical department decided that he’s not for the started line-up but if nothing happens he’s on the bench.

“It’s a long time for him and it’s the first step back for him, being back in the dressing room and not in a suit, in a tracksuit!”