Liverpool defender Nathaniel Clyne likely to be sidelined until 2018 as Jurgen Klopp reveals England international will be 'out for some time'
- Nathaniel Clyne, 26, is expected to be out of action until the new year
- Clyne made just one appearance during Liverpool's pre-season schedule
- Liverpool omitted Clyne from their squad for the Champions League group stage
Liverpool have confirmed right back Nathaniel Clyne is expected to be out until the new year with a back injury.
The Reds announced on Monday that Clyne had been omitted from their Champions League squad for the group stages - giving a clear indication that they did not expect him back before Christmas.
And the injury blow has been confirmed with Liverpool releasing the following statement by Jurgen Klopp: 'Nathaniel is working hard on his rehab and we have kept a close eye on his progress, but the reality is we are looking at some time still before he is back and available for selection.
Liverpool right back Nathaniel Clyne is expected to be out for up three months through injury
The injury news will come as a blow to Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and his coaching team
'I am told it will be longer than just a couple of weeks, so we will continue to monitor and assess.
'It is pretty certain he'll not be available for the majority of the Champions League group matches. If we are fortunate enough to still be in UEFA competition in the new year he could be added to the squad then.
'The medical guys are pleased with how he is responding and Nathaniel has shown a really strong attitude, given he is not someone who is used to being out injured.
'What is positive for us is how Joe [Gomez] and Trent [Alexander-Arnold] have stepped up and grasped their opportunities.'
England boss Gareth Southgate will also be disappointed with the news of Clyne's injury
Clyne appeared in Liverpool's 4-0 friendly win over Tranmere Rovers on July 12 but has been unable to appear for the Reds ever since.
Youngsters Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez have deputised in Clyne's place while Kieran Trippier has played second fiddle to Kyle Walker on the international scene.
News of the severity of Clyne's injury will come as a major blow to both Klopp and Gareth Southgate.
England boss Southgate is unlikely to need the former Crystal Palace full back for the Three Lions' last two qualifying matches against Slovenia and Lithuania but he will want his potential squad members fully fit and in form ahead of a potential World Cup next summer.
Joe Gomez (pictured) and Trent Alexander-Arnold have deputised for the injured Clyne
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