Liverpool suffered a 2-1 defeat at Wolves in the FA Cup third round on Monday night. The defeat now means that Jurgen Klopp’s side has lost their last two games in all competitions after a defeat to Manchester City in their last league game.
The Merseysiders fielded a weakened side, as the FA Cup is far from the top of the Reds priority list this season. Not only did they experience defeat at Molineux, but the visitors also saw Croatia centre-back Dejan Lovren pick-up a hamstring injury.
Lovren’s injury leaves Liverpool short of centre-backs with Joel Matip and Joe Gomez already sidelined through injury. The Croatian’s injury leaves Virgil van Dijk as the clubs only fit centre-back. He is one of the best defenders in the top-flight, but as good as he is he cannot do everything on his own.
Both Matip and Gomez are close to a return to fitness, but neither is ready to start for the Merseysiders. Fabinho started the Wolves game at centre-back alongside Lovren, so the Brazilian may well start this weekend’s game at Brighton in the Premier League.
The Reds have the best defensive record in the Premier League this season, which has played a key part in the Merseysiders position at the top of the table. Klopp’s side has looked formidable in defence and lead to the belief that Liverpool may finally end their long wait for the English top-flight title.
Liverpool are still four points clear of second place reigning champions Manchester City at the top of the table. They are still in control of their own destiny and the title race.
However, the Reds potential defensive crisis gives the Citizens a hope of bridging the gap. With the momentum that the Merseysiders had built prior to the two straight defeats, Pep Guardiola’s side needed that boost.