The match took a worrying turn for Liverpool when Konate succumbed to a muscle problem less than five minutes into the second half, with the team leading 3-1.
Konate’s sudden departure prompted Virgil van Dijk to step in as his replacement, assuming the role of left centre-back, while Jarell Quansah shifted to the right.
Questions surrounding Konate’s injury lingered, with TNT journalist Danny Jamieson seeking clarification from the manager regarding his condition.
Following the match, Klopp explained: “Ibou said to me ‘if I do another sprint, it could be set’. Should be fine but we don’t know, Joe Gomez is fine, played a lot, rotation. So let’s see with Ibou.”
The reporter wrote on X: “Ibrahima Konate’s substitution was precautionary – ‘he (Klopp) said if he carried on it may be a problem so we will see [for Sunday].’”
According to Jamieson’s report on X, Klopp indicated that Konate’s substitution was a precautionary measure, emphasizing the need for further assessment before determining his availability for future fixtures.
Given Konate’s history of susceptibility to injuries, his absence raises concerns, particularly considering his limited consecutive match appearances throughout the season.
As Liverpool prepares for upcoming challenges, the status of Konate remains a focal point, with the team hoping for a swift recovery to bolster their defensive lineup.