After entering the Ipswich field on the hour mark, Bradley Barcola made his first start with Liverpool this week in the Champions League, against Atlético de Madrid (2-1). The most expensive recruit of the summer for the Reds, the former Parisian created two big chances before giving up his place due to a physical problem, complaining of his calf.
It was clearly not a dream debut at Anfield for the Lyon-trained player, who was released after 60 minutes. But the good news is that there is nothing serious for the Reds’ number 29. His coach confirmed this Friday that it was only cramps, the consequence of a truncated preparation with PSG.
“We still have to practice this afternoon, explained Andoni Iraola this Friday lunchtime, on the eve of the Fulham reception. For Barcola, it was just cramps. We need to assess his condition today, but there is no injury. I think he should be available if everything goes normally. »
News from Barcola, Gakpo and Ekitiké
Incidentally, Iraola also took stock of the situation of Cody Gakpo, affected in the adductor muscles, and forfeited for the reception of Atlético. “For Cody (Gakpo), we’ll see. He didn’t train yesterday. Today we’re going to do a trial with him and see if he’s ready for tomorrow or if we have to wait until the next match. »
The Spanish coach was also questioned about the situation of Hugo Ekitiké, filmed in recent days falling into a ball.“ I think it’s complicated with these long-term injuries,
said Iraola about the Frenchman, victim of a ruptured Achilles tendon. I think he’s still a long way from being ready. We had a meeting with the medical staff to analyze the situation once the list of players is finalized for the European matches. There is a reasonable chance that he could help us in the last two matches of the Champions League group stage, but it is still too early to tell. »
