Jurgen Klopp singles out Gini Wijnaldum for praise after Napoli draw

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Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praised Gini Wijnaldum following the Reds’ 1-1 draw with Napoli in the Champions League on Wednesday.

The Premier League leaders slipped up at Anfield against their thorn side and must now avoid defeat against RB Salzburg in Austria to seal their progression from the group.

A win against Jesse Marsch’s side could see them go through as group winners if Genk hold Napoli to a draw.

The Reds had an off night against the Serie A outfit, and were not helped when Fabinho had to come off due to an ankle injury.

The Brazilian was replaced by Wijnaldum, whose performance drew praise from his manager afterwards.

“Then the last two things that should have happened – they score 1-0 and Fabinho gets injured,” he said (liverpoolfc.com). “One problem for tonight we could solve with Gini, who played a really, really good game, but the other thing caused us a problem.”

The Dutchman could now be key if Fabinho is set for a spell on the sidelines.

TBR’s view – Wijnaldum to hold?

It could be that Wijnaldum is the man tasked with anchoring the midfield in any absence of Fabinho.

Wijnaldum’s exploits for the Netherlands have been well documented, but he has proven himself capable of playing deeper for the Reds, and something that Klopp seems to like.

Fans will hope to see the brilliant Fabinho back as soon as possible, but Wijnaldum could be a solution to any potential issue.