Virals: Pep Lijnders admits Diogo Jota availability is a 'challenge'

Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders has suggested Diogo Jota still faces an uphill challenge to be fit for the Carabao Cup final.

The 26-year-old forward damaged ankle ligaments in the victory over Inter Milan and has subsequently missed clashes with Norwich City and Leeds United.

However, the Portuguese ace is nearing fitness in time to be ready for the Wembley showpiece.

Speaking to the press ahead of the final against Chelsea, Lijnders admitted that Jota will be touch and go in terms of availability.

Pep Lijnders says "it will be a challenge" for Diogo Jota to be fit for the CC final. Roberto Firmino will miss the game.

— paul joyce (@_pauljoyce) February 25, 2022

The coach confirmed that there had been no adverse reaction thus far as the ace made a return to sections of training.

So far this season Jota has scored 17 times and provided three assists across all competitions.

It seems that the best-case scenario would see the £54million valued star named on the bench – even that would be a huge boost to the Reds, with Jurgen Klopp able to call upon a potent goalscorer if required.

Were that to indeed be the case, Luis Diaz, Divock Origi, Takumi Minamino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane would all be vying for a starting spot.

Regardless of Jota’s role in this clash, an imminent return to fitness seems inevitable which would be welcome news to Liverpool supporters everywhere.