Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has revealed that he has been relying on painkillers to play after “rushing” his recovery from a knee injury earlier this season.
Konate was sidelined for over a month following a knee injury sustained during Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League in November.
The French defender made his return to action in the New Year, featuring in Liverpool’s starting lineup for the first time since regaining fitness during their Premier League clash against Manchester United.
Despite starting all three of Liverpool’s Premier League matches in January under manager Arne Slot, Konate admitted that he may have come back too soon.
Speaking to reporters, the France international said: “I tried to come back 100% but I’m not because I rushed my comeback with my knee.
“I’ve done this for my team. I can die for this team, it is fine.
“My knee will come back 100% soon, it’s fine. I still have pain. I play with painkillers and that is enough for me to play.
“I was very close to coming back anyway. My plan was to train that week but when I saw Joe [Gomez] with his injury I was like: ‘Okay, I have to come back quicker.’
“For sure, the first game I felt my knee a little bit, but it got better day after day. The physios and the medical staff have done a great job for me.”
Konate has nonetheless been instrumental in Liverpool’s rise to the top of the Premier League table, forming a formidable defensive partnership with Virgil van Dijk.
His commanding performances at the back have been key to the Reds’ strong start to the calendar year.
Liverpool, currently leading the Premier League standings, are set to host Lille in the Champions League at Anfield on Tuesday.
Konate is expected to retain his place in Slot’s starting XI as the Reds look to continue their impressive form in Europe.
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