Jurgen Klopp delivered a hammer blow to Liverpool’s title hopes at his press conference today. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, he confirmed, will miss the whole of next season due to injury.
The midfielder suffered multiple ligament damage in his knee during the Champions League semi-final against Roma.
Medical staff believes he will make a full recovery and the club is monitoring his progress closely. Liverpool is keen not to rush him back to avoid further injuries associated with player recovery, such as hamstring strains.
The player requested only a tight circle of staff know the severity of his injury. With the club preparing for its’ sixth Champions League final, Oxlade-Chamberlain felt the bad news would be disruptive to the squad.
Liverpool fans worst fears were fed further when Klopp added that it would be a “bonus” if the midfielder played before next May. Their concerns reflect his outstanding form prior to suffering the injury.
Having initially struggled following his £40m move from Arsenal, Oxlade-Chamberlain became an integral member of the Liverpool team as the season progressed. According to some observers, it was close to the best of his career and certainly the most consistent.
He was almost certain to play a significant part in Gareth Southgate’s England squad this summer. Critics of the one-dimensional style believe his absence severely limited the England coaches options.
