Saying it without saying it.
That was pretty much the mantra that Jürgen Klopp went with last night whilst discussing the absence of Xherdan Shaqiri from the matchday squad to face Arsenal last night in the Carabao Cup.
It’s a game that you would normally expect to see the Swiss international play, having fallen into a rotational substitute role during his time at Anfield, indeed playing in last week’s victory over Lincoln City, offering the likes of Mo Salah the chance to get some rest during a packed schedule this season.
However, whilst speaking to Sky Sports after the game about his absence, Klopp seemed to indicate that he was taken out of the squad because he’s in the process of leaving the club, possibly not wanting him to get injured and jeopardise any potential moves:
“This time of the year, things happen in the background and we need to react”
Jurgen Klopp explains why some fringe Liverpool players were not involved tonight v Arsenal pic.twitter.com/9eA37uHaCG
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 1, 2020
Has Shaqiri been a worthwhile investment for Liverpool?
Yes
No
This was pretty much confirmed by Athletic journalist James Pearce after the game, as he pointed out that there are two clubs interested in his services, one of which from Serie A.
It will be interesting what route Klopp decides to go down when it comes to finding a replacement, if any, for Shaqiri, who has played his role to perfection whilst at the club. Whether or not Klopp will promote from within or delve into the market for a replacement.
What about you? What do you make of this news regarding Shaqiri? How would you replace him?