Liverpool midfielder is major doubt for City clash

Emre Can is a major doubt for Liverpool ahead of their Champions League clash with Manchester City on Wednesday night.

The German – who was excellent in the Reds’ 4-3 win over City in January – returned to Melwood early from international duty with a back problem he had suffered during the Premier League clash with Watford.

He missed Saturday’s win at Crystal Palace and The Times claim that he is yet to resume training.

It is described as a ‘significant setback’ for Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who may instead have to field the same central midfield who faced Palace.

That would mean a massive chance for James Milner (who was excellent against Palace) alongside Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum.

Liverpool are also missing defender Joe Gomez and Adam Lallana, who could now miss the World Cup unless Gareth Southgate shows remarkable faith after he limped out of Saturday’s win at Palace after just four minutes.