Five Liverpool stars wholl benefit from Klopps call not to sign cover for Salah and Mane

Klopp details Gerrard chat after Liverpool beat Aston Villa

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Some Liverpool players could be rubbing their hands together in anticipation of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane’s temporary exits in the new year. Both stars will represent their respective nations at the 2022 African Cup of Nations and could miss over a month of club football.

Ahead of Newcastle United’s trip to Anfield on Thursday, Klopp suggested he was happy with his current options in preparation for his attacking duo’s departures.

He said: “Can you be prepared for something like that, properly, perfectly? Like a replacement for Sadio, a replacement for Mo, a replacement for Naby?

“That’s tricky in each situation, so no. But am I happy with the squad? Yes. And we have options to play and still to play football.”

Express Sport looks at five Liverpool players who could thrive as Klopp utilises his squad in Salah and Mane’s absence.

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Divock Origi

Divock Origi has become a cult hero at Liverpool, scoring crucial goals in the club’s success under Klopp.

However, with Salah and Mane in the picture, he’s seen as nothing more than a rotational player with substitute cameos acting as his primary source of game time.

Origi could get a solid run of games either down the middle or on the wing whilst both players are away.

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Takumi Minamino

Takumi Minamino wasn’t expected to break into Klopp’s regular starting lineup after arriving from RB Salzburg in January 2020.

But with both of Klopp’s first-choice wingers set for a spell away, Minamino will see it as a prime opportunity to stake his claim.

The Japan international has commonly impressed when playing – particularly in the Carabao Cup – and is in line for more Premier League minutes.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Liverpool signed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as a winger in £35million, but he’s seen most of his game time in midfield in recent seasons.

With Klopp seemingly set on Fabinho, Jordan Henderson and Thiago as his strongest midfield three, Oxlade-Chamberlain could return to his natural position in Salah and Mane’s absence.

Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino

Salah and Mane are almost certainties to be in the Liverpool team every week, leaving Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino battling for the final attacking spot.

But there will soon be no need to tussle for the same position, as two more will become regularly available.

Both will likely start together in the new year, with the other spot going to Minamino, Origi or Oxlade-Chamberlain.

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