Arne Slot is optimistic that Ryan Gravenberch will be fit to feature when Liverpool host Real Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday.
The midfielder returned to action on Saturday evening against Aston Villa after missing three games due to an ankle injury.
Ryan Gravenberch played the full 90 minutes and delivered an influential performance, scoring Liverpool’s second goal in the 2-0 Premier League win at Anfield.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, head coach Slot was asked whether he would need to manage Gravenberch’s minutes ahead of the European showdown with Real Madrid.
“It depends on how his ankle feels now,” he said. “It’s of course a difference if you’ve been out with a muscle injury or with an ankle injury.
“I think he’s able to go again, but we have to see how he comes out of this game. But I think this game also gives a bit of energy on itself to play Real Madrid.
“But it’s true that we also have to be smart about the minutes because we have 19, 20 players available normally.
“With three or four out, that means a lot of minutes need to go to the same players, and when they go to the national team they have to play as well.
“I think Ryan is able to play [on] Tuesday again but we have to wait and see.”
Read more: Arne Slot hails “unbelievable” Mohamed Salah after reaching 250 Liverpool goals
Mohamed Salah admits to frustration despite helping Liverpool end losing streak
