Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola faces a major selection headache ahead of the crucial clash against Manchester City, with Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo ruled out through injury.<\/p>\n
With Hugo Ekitike also recovering from a long-term Achilles injury, Iraola has limited options up front, including young striker Lewis Koumas, Bradley Barcola and Florian Wirtz. Federico Chiesa could return but is still working towards full fitness.<\/p>\n
Iraola admitted he has had little time to prepare a backup plan, with Liverpool returning to training only on Thursday.<\/p>\n
\u201cAlex Isak and Cody Gakpo will not play the game. They are not ready,\u201d he confirmed.<\/p>\n
Isak is struggling with a thigh injury, while Gakpo is dealing with an ankle problem. Iraola backed Koumas to step up, insisting the youngster has already shown he can handle important moments.<\/p>\n
Liverpool now face a demanding schedule, with Manchester City followed by a Champions League fixture and a Premier League clash against Brentford just days later.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"