Liverpool blow as Roberto Firmino ruled out of West Ham clash through injury
LIVERPOOL have been dealt a blow in their bid to secure a top four Premier League finish after Roberto Firmino was ruled out of today’s clash with West Ham.
The Brazilian striker suffered an injury in training this week but boss Jurgen Klopp had hoped he would come through a late fitness test in time to play.
Roberto Firmino is out of Liverpool’s trip to West Ham through injuryGetty Images
But Firmino has not recovered enough to travel with the squad to the London Stadium for a game the Reds know they need to win to keep themselves on track for a Champions League spot.
Klopp had revealed on Friday that Firmino and fellow Brazilian Lucas Leiva had both pulled up with muscle problems in midweek.
Roberto Firmino is a key player in the way Jurgen Klopp likes to set up his Liverpool teamRex Features
The Liverpool boss felt neither would definitely be ruled out, although admitted they would train on Saturday to see how well they were feeling.
Now it has emerged Firmino was unable to come through Saturday’s session – although there was better news on the fitness of Lucas.
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The versatile midfielder has travelled down tot he capital and is expected to start against the Hammers in the vital match in the race to finish in the top four.
Liverpool are currently just a point ahead of fifth-placed Arsenal as they battle to stay in a position that would see them qualify for the Champions League next season.
Victory in their remaining two matches would guarantee top four, but if they slip up in either game they will be relying on Arsenal not taking maximum points from their final matches.
Liverpool are at least boosted by the news Lucas is fit to play against West HamRex Features
Firmino's absence has thrown up a selection dilemma for Klopp, who must decide which player will lead the Liverpool attack in his absence.
Divock Origi and Daniel Sturridge are both fit and pushing for a start, with the Belgian likely to get the nod later today.
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