If ever there was a more trying moment at Anfield, tonight is certainly one of them!
Indeed, defender Trent Alexander Arnold has admitted that Liverpool will have to do the impossible against a Barcelona team that has the most prolific striker in Messi and the explosive Suarez leading the attack.
Unfortunately for Liverpool, the resilient Egyptian King Moh Salah and full-of-flare Brazillian boy Roberto Firmino will be absent against the Spanish champions at Anfield, leaving Jurgen Klopp without two of his most potent attacking weapons for what is already a massive challenge.
“Obviously we’ve got two of our main goalscorers out, but it also presents an opportunity for some of the other lads to come in, make a name for themselves and make themselves heroes,” said Alexander-Arnold.
“If we do overturn the deficit tomorrow then whoever scores, their name will always be remembered because I am sure it will be one of those really special nights.”
Salah was stretchered off during Liverpool’s tense 3-2 win at Newcastle on Saturday that kept alive their chances of a first Premier League title in 29 years after colliding with Magpies’ goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.
Here is the video to the nasty collision:
“It’s a concussion so that means he would not even be allowed to play,” Klopp said on Monday.
“He feels OK but it is not good enough from a medical point of view that is all. He’s desperate (to play) but we cannot do it.”
Klopp, speaking before Manchester City ensured they remain in the driving seat for the Premier League title by beating Leicester 1-0 on Monday, was realistic about his side’s chances of progressing to a second consecutive Champions League final.
But the German refused to give up hope.
“Together with our supporters it was a long season and there is at least a little chance to make it even longer,” Klopp added.
“Two of the world’s best strikers are not available tomorrow night and we have to score four goals against Barcelona to go through after 90 minutes.
“It doesn’t make life easier, but as long as we have 11 players on the pitch, we will try it.”