Andy Robertson will miss the start of Liverpool’s season with an ankle ligament injury, according to James Pearce of The Athletic. The Scotland full-back had to be helped off the field in the Reds’ pre-season friendly against Athletic Bilbao after rolling his ankle while attempting to block a cross by Alex Berenguer. Now, the Andy Robertson injury has caused a major blow to Jurgen Klopp’s preparations ahead of the new Premier League season.
Andy Robertson Injury: Ankle Problem Rules Defender Out of Liverpool’s Opening Fixtures
Robertson to Miss ‘Weeks Rather Than Months’
Robertson underwent a scan on Monday morning following Sunday’s draw with Bilbao, to determine the severity of his ankle injury. The 27-year-old was pictured leaving hospital on crutches and in a protective boot, sparking worry among Liverpool fans with the season kicking off this weekend.
It is currently unclear when Robertson will specifically return, however The Athletic report Robertson’s injury is not as bad as first thought and have placed a timeline for his recovery as ‘weeks rather than months’.
The Scotland captain took to social media ahead of Liverpool’s friendly against Osasuna on Monday, posting: “Thanks to everyone for the kind messages and support. Scan suggests nothing too major but there’s some ligament damage which will need to mend.
“I will be grafting every day so I can help the team again sooner rather than later. Good luck to the boys playing tonight #YNWA.”
Who Will Step Into Robertson’s Place?
The absence of Robertson will prove to be a blow to Jurgen Klopp’s preparations, with his side opening their season on Saturday evening at Norwich City.
Klopp has heavily relied on the tenacious full-back since his arrival in 2017, featuring in 177 games in all competitions for the Reds. He started all 38 Premier League games last campaign, in a defensive line decimated by injuries all season long.
But stepping into his place will likely be Greek left-back Kostas Tsimikas, who looks set to receive an extended run out in the side after a tricky first season in England.
Tsimikas made the move to Merseyside from Olympiacos last summer, but has mostly played a bit-part role and barely troubled Robertson for a starting place. He will now be looking to seize his opportunity to impress, with the Scotsman out indefinitely.
Speaking to the club’s website following Liverpool’s pre-season win over Bologna, he said: “I always try to improve my game and to give my best to help the team – to win, to score goals. Always these kind of games give me more power to continue running and to improve. And I’m very happy to help my team win 1-0 even in a friendly game.
“I always give my best to be close to the team. And whenever my coach gives me the opportunity to play, I’m always ready for that. Any opportunity, I’m ready.”
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