Klopp hints at Liverpool debut tonight for ‘devastating’ talent who’s ‘giving his absolute all in training’

Wed 7 September 2022 6:45, UK

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has hinted at giving new signing Arthur Melo his debut in tonight’s Champions League opener.

The Reds get their Group A campaign under way at Serie A giants Napoli.

Liverpool are currently in the midst of an injury crisis which has affected the midfield in particular.

This prompted the Reds to reassess their transfer options late on in the summer window.

Klopp admitted that a new signing was needed in order to boost his options in the middle of the park.

Liverpool duly brought Arthur to Anfield, snapping him up on loan from Juventus.

The Brazil international is yet to debut for Liverpool, having been an unused substitute in the Merseyside derby.

Klopp, speaking to the Reds on Tuesday, said the “devastating” midfielder was working hard in training.

However, the Liverpool manager stressed that Arthur will likely not be starting against Napoli, as he needs to get up to speed.

“Arthur needs now just football – and training, especially, that’s how it is,” said Klopp.

“He wasn’t in team training for a while at Juve, so he needs proper team training – and that’s what we are doing with him.

“Can he play minutes? Yes. Should he play a full game? No, because he needs to get used to the intensity in each competition.

“It’s not like in the Champions League you have to work less than in the Premier League. Not at all, especially not here.

“He is doing well, he is really giving his absolute all in training.

“We have to be careful with him as well and then we will see whether we can use him.”

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