Liverpool dealt major blow ahead of PSG clash as Slot gives update on forward’s condition

Liverpool face an anxious wait over Cody Gakpo’s fitness ahead of their crucial Champions League Round of 16 clash with Paris Saint-Germain.

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The Dutch forward missed training on Tuesday, but manager Arne Slot remains hopeful he could still play a role in the first leg at the Parc des Princes.

Concerns over Gakpo’s availability heightened after he was absent from Liverpool’s final training session before their trip to Paris.

The 25-year-old has been managing an ankle issue since the Merseyside Derby on February 12, which forced him to miss two matches.

Although he has returned to action as a substitute against Manchester City and Newcastle United, his latest setback has raised doubts about his involvement against PSG.

Despite missing training, Gakpo has traveled with the squad, with Liverpool confirming his inclusion in the 24-man group heading to France.

Slot had been easing the forward back into action, limiting his minutes in recent matches, but his latest setback has left the club sweating on his availability.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Slot confirmed that a final decision on Gakpo’s involvement will be made on the day of the game.

He explained that while the Dutchman was close to full fitness, he suffered a minor setback in training, saying, "He was close to being ready to play again but he felt a bit of pain after blocking a shot in training.

"We brought him with us and will make a decision tomorrow on if he can be involved. It will be a close call."

While his inclusion in the traveling squad suggests Liverpool are still hopeful, his absence from training just a day before the match raises concerns.

Slot and his medical staff will likely assess Gakpo’s condition on matchday before making a final call on whether he will feature in one of the club’s most important games of the season.