Inter Milan star suspended for Liverpool game in Champions League

Liverpool have been given an advantage ahead of their Champions League tie with Inter Milan next month.

After initially being paired with FC Salzburg, Liverpool were eventually pitted against Simone Inzaghi's Inter side after a mistake meant the draw for the round of 16 had to be redone.

Inter have had a strong season so far, currently the defending Serie A champions, Inzaghi's side are current leaders in the table.

And they've been dealt with a significant blow in the lead up to the two rounds with Jurgen Klopp's men.

The Italian side are set to be without star midfielder Nicolo Barella in both fixtures.

The 24-year-old was one of the best performers at EURO 2020 last summer, helping lead Italy to winning the tournament.

And the expansive central midfielder has continued that form this season with Inter.

However, after receiving a straight red card in the final Champions League group stage game against Real Madrid, Barella had appealed - but the decision has now been turned down.

Inter will also be without striker Joaquin Correa for the first game in Milan due to a flexor injury.

Inter will host Liverpool at San Siro on February 16 and will visit Anfield Road on March 8.