Andoni Iraola Delivers Positive Bradley Barcola Injury Update After Atletico Clash
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has eased concerns over Bradley Barcola after the winger was substituted during Wednesday’s 2-1 Champions League win against Atletico Madrid.
Barcola made his first Liverpool start since completing his big-money transfer from Paris Saint-Germain at the end of August. However, his full debut was interrupted early in the second half after he went down with what appeared to be discomfort in his calf.
The £106m signing managed to walk off the pitch, but the incident immediately worried Liverpool supporters, who feared he could have picked up a serious injury.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Iraola reassured fans that there was no major injury concern, explaining that Barcola was suffering from cramps.
«“It was just cramps, especially with Bradley. We are rushing him but we decided today to ask him to give everything he had,” Iraola explained.»
The 24-year-old is still building up his fitness after several weeks away from competitive action. He only returned with a 26-minute cameo against Ipswich last Friday, having not played since the World Cup ended in mid-July.
Despite his limited preparation, Barcola was trusted to start against Atletico and lasted almost an hour. He tested Jan Oblak with a couple of efforts and also had a promising chance early in the second half when he was sent through on goal.
Fortunately for Liverpool, Iraola’s comments indicate that Barcola’s withdrawal was primarily a precaution as part of his gradual return to full fitness, rather than a serious injury.
Liverpool will now hope the French winger recovers quickly and can be involved when they face Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday.
