Liverpool defender absent in training before Chelsea game

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is reportedly doubtful ahead of the Premier League meeting against Chelsea at Anfield this weekend.

The Frenchman has been a key player in the heart of the Reds' defence alongside Virgil van Dijk, and has barely been out of the starting XI.

He started the recent loss at Manchester United at Old Trafford last weekend, but also picked up a minor knock late in the same game.

Konate was absent from Thursday's open training session, and reports indicate that he may be recovering after the untimely issue against United.

The former RB Leipzig centre-back could be assessed over the next 24 hours, given Liverpool host Chelsea in an early lunch-time kick-off on Saturday.

Liverpool have a good goal difference over the chasing pack. A win against the Blues at home on Sunday would pretty much secure Champions League qualification.

Meanwhile, Konate is on the cusp of penning a new long-term deal with the Reds. He has already agreed on terms and a renewal could be sorted this month.