Liverpool dealt Konate injury blow ahead of Man City encounter

Ibrahima Konate confirmed he will be on the sidelines ahead of Liverpool's blockbuster match against Manchester City on Sunday.

Konate was one of the standout players for the Reds in their Champions League win over Real Madrid in midweek but appeared to pick up an injury late in the match.

The Frenchman tangled with Madrid's young Brazilian winger Endrick, leaving him on the ground, although he was able to complete the 90 minutes.

However, Konate is expected to miss the tempting match against Pep Guardiola's out-of-form City side this weekend, with reports suggesting he could miss up to 11 games.

“So frustrating to suffer this injury on Wednesday night at the end of a great game,” Konate posted on Instagram.

“Now we start the recovery process, but I promise one thing: I will come back and be the best I can be again.

“Thank you for the great support at Anfield. Inshallah we will continue and I will support the team every step of the way.”

Konate's absence is a huge blow to Arne Slot's side as the Frenchman has formed an imperious partnership alongside Virgil van Dijk this season.

The Reds have conceded just 12 goals in their 19 games in all competitions so far this season, with Konate playing a big role in their new-found defensive resilience.

Only Van Dijk (40) has won more aerial duels in the Premier League for Liverpool this season than Konate (28), while the Frenchman has made more blocks (five) than any of his teammates.