Liverpool F.C. is facing a defensive crisis as Curtis Jones missed the friendly defeat to Monaco due to a hip injury. Andoni Iraola confirmed that Jones has trained every day but finished with issues in the hip. The 25-year-old midfielder was a surprise absentee from the matchday squad against the Ligue 1 side.
Liverpool F.C. raced into a two-goal lead at Anfield thanks to goals from Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz before the half hour mark. However, for the second pre-season friendly in succession, the Reds failed to see out the result as Aleksandr Golovin, Mika Biereth, and Paris Brunner sealed a comeback win for Monaco.
Why it matters for Liverpool F.C.
The defensive injury crisis is a major concern for Liverpool F.C. as they are thought to be closing in on defensive reinforcements amid reports they have agreed a deal with Barcelona for captain Ronald Araujo. In fact, Barca boss Hansi Flick has effectively 'confirmed' the transfer after explaining why the Uruguay international has been allowed to leave the club.
Liverpool F.C. are set to face Como next week, and it remains to be seen whether Jones will be fit to feature. The Reds are also expected to make further signings in the coming days as they look to strengthen their squad for the new season. With the Premier League season just around the corner, Liverpool F.C. will be eager to get their campaign off to a strong start.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 5th in Premier League, 60 pts, 17W-9D-12L from 38 games, recent form DLDLW. Goals this season: 63 scored, 53 conceded (+10 goal difference). Title race: 25 points behind leaders Arsenal.
