Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has cast doubt over the availability of a number of key players for the Premier League meeting with Newcastle United. 

The lowdown: No room for manoeuvre

The Reds are once again involved in a neck and neck title race with Manchester City that could see the two clubs repeat their exploits from 2019/20 and win all their remaining games with just one point separating the sides.

It's Liverpool's turn to set the tone for match-day 35's round of fixtures as City awaits the result before they face Leeds United at Elland Road.

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Fresh off the back of signing a new deal that will see Jurgen Klopp remain at Anfield until 2026, the German manager has admitted that there are some fitness concerns ahead of the trip to St James' Park...

The latest: Firmino out

Speaking during the pre-match press conference, as relayed by the Liverpool Echo, the 54-year-old confirmed Roberto Firmino will miss the trip to the North East.

“It's not a serious injury but it takes now a little bit longer than we all thought. We will have to find a way of getting him back.”

Klopp also suggested both Kostas Tsimikas and Curtis Jones are doubtful, having suffered from illness this week, albeit the former returned to training on Thursday.

The verdict: No risks required

Given the options currently at the German's disposal, there is no need for an unnecessary risk on any player that could jeopardise fitness for what looks set to be a tantalising run-in.

At present, the Reds have Diogo Jota, Divock Origi and Sadio Mane all fit, firing and available and ready to play centrally of a front three against an in-form Newcastle. Lesser seen forward Takumi Minamino could also be viewed as a viable option from the substitutes bench were alternatives to be required.

With an FA Cup final, four more monumental Premier League clashes and potentially a UEFA Champions League final still to come, getting Firmino - who was hailed as 'unbelievable' by Joe Cole - back to full fitness following this protracted foot issue is more important than rushing the Brazilian back now.

Furthermore, Jones and Tsimikas have made a combined 45 appearances this term, primarily in domestic cup competitions and would likely be amongst the substitutes at full tilt for this fixture.

In other news, reliable journalist confirms Liverpool interest in Ligue 1 star. Read more here.