Jurgen Klopp is optimistic that James Milner will be fit for Liverpool FC’s season opener against Norwich City at Anfield on Friday night.
The retired England international was a noticeable absentee from the Liverpool FC squad for their penalty shootout defeat by Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley on Sunday.
The Liverpool FC vice-captain was forced to sit out the Wembley clash as a precaution due to a minor muscle injury.
Klopp opted to start with Jordan Henderson, Fabinho and Georginio Wijnaldum in the heart of midfield as Joel Matip’s 77th-minute equaliser forced penalties after Raheem Sterling’s early goal.
Milner is expected to make a return to training in the coming days ahead of Liverpool FC’s opening game of the Premier League season against Championship winners Norwich City.
Speaking at his post-match media conference at Wembley about Milner’s fitness, Klopp said:
“I would say yes [he will be fit to face Norwich].
“It was a minor muscle injury. I would say he can probably train tomorrow, although I am not 100 per cent sure.
“For today it did not work out, but I think by at least Tuesday he can train.”
Milner was a key part of the Liverpool FC team last season as the Reds finished in second place in the Premier League table behind the midfielder’s former club Manchester City.
The Merseyside outfit managed to accumulate 97 points but Liverpool FC still ended up a point behind Premier League champions Manchester City.
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Liverpool FC haven’t won the Premier League title but have finished in second place on four different occasions.
This article was most recently revised and updated 5 years ago