Liverpool news: Cody Gakpo and three team-mates miss training as star ‘unhappy’

Liverpool take on Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash on Wednesday evening after a rare weekend off for Arne Slot

After a weekend without action, Liverpool are back with a bang as they prepare for a gargantuan Champions League clash.

The Reds make the trip to France to take on Paris-Saint Germain in the last-16 of Europe’s premier competition. Luis Enrique’s side earned their place after defeating Brest in the play-off round, after Liverpool secured their spot by topping the group stage.

Arne Slot will hope to translate his team’s Premier League successes into European progression by earning a positive result in their first-leg. The final weeks of the season are upon us and every game is beginning to take on greater significance, even with a healthy domestic lead.

Mirror Football takes a look at the latest news surrounding Anfield.

Star misses training

Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo was absent from training ahead of the Reds’ Champions League clash. The Dutchman was not present for the open portion of the session on Merseyside, ahead of the team travelling to Paris on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old missed two fixtures due to a knock in February but appeared from the bench against Manchester City and Newcastle United in the club’s most recent outings. Gakpo was the primary noticeable absentee as he joined those expexted to miss training in Conor Bradley, Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton.

Slot did call upon some young talent to supplement the group however. Trey Nyoni, Rio Ngumoha and James McConnell all particpated in the session.

Warning

PSG star Ousman Dembele is expecting a tough encounter with Liverpool but has faith in his team’s preparations to take on the Reds. The French winger is enjoying a remarkable season, having scored 26 goals in 33 games, but was keen to praise the teamwork his side have shown.

“We are preparing well for what is to come [Liverpool],” the ex-Barcelona star said. “Since the beginning of the season, [Luis Enrique] has been telling us to play good football. Everyone is participating, whether it’s the midfielders, defenders or attackers. Everyone wants to be decisive.

“We are in a very good dynamic, we will try to keep it as long as possible. We are having a blast! Everyone attacks, everyone defends. We are a very united team, that gives results like that. It’s just fun for 90-95 minutes.”

“We know it’s going to be a tough match,” he added. “It’s the Champions League. Liverpool finished first, they’re also confident. It’s going to be a great show.”

‘Unhappy’ Reds star

Darwin Nunez was unhappy that a possible January exit was blocked, according to reports.

The Reds striker has endured a difficult season at Anfield but still drew interest in the most recent transfer window. Darwin has struggled to break into Slot’s starting XI in recent months, but still found Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal interested.

Liverpool are said to have denied their striker permission to engage in talks, with Darwin frustrated with that decision. The Uruguay international has managed just six goals this term.

Slot has recently questioned the forward’s work-rate. “For the second time in a row I wasn’t happy with his work effort, against Wolves and against Villa,” he said.

“I can’t accept if a player doesn’t give everything. That is clear. I can accept it once, but twice was a bit too much. That’s why I addressed it.

“If you miss a chance, you need to be fighting for the team. I’m not saying he didn’t do that at all, but it wasn’t the usual Darwin, the one that is loved by the fans. That is mainly because he always works so hard.”

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