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Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has revealed he has "doubts" over certain key players ahead of their Champions League encounter with Liverpool.
The pair face off on February 21 in a repeat of last year's final, when Los Blancos edged the Reds 1-0 in a tight affair.
Liverpool are dealing with several injury problems themselves this season. Jurgen Klopp is unable to call on Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk Luis Diaz, Arthur Melo, Roberto Firmino and Diogo Jota at present.
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Although there is hope that some will return in time for the heavyweight clash.
Ancelotti provides Benzema update
Ancelotti was asked about his injury situation ahead of the final on Saturday. The Real boss provided an update on Karim Benzema and Eder Militao.
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“They are not fully recovered,” said Ancelotti. “Karim is quite good and with Militao I have more doubts.
“They will train before the game and we will make decisions there.
“[Dani] Carvajal returns, who had a fever today and [Marco] Asensio, who has a small overload from the Mallorca game”.
However, he did not mention goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who is a serious doubt for the contest.
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The 30-year-old missed out on his side's 4-1 win over Al Ahly in the FIFA Club World Cup on Wednesday after picking up an adductor injury.
Meanwhile, The Athletic reported that the Belgium international should definitely be in contention to play in the knockout tie.
Courtois shone during last year's Champions League final, making countless saves to deny Liverpool.
His heroics earned him the Yashin Trophy, becoming the best goalkeeper in the world.
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A humiliating 3-0 defeat to Wolves on Saturday was the worst possible preparation, with Klopp's side currently languishing in 10th place.
As the top four edges further and further out of reach, the Reds only viable method of qualifying for the Champions League next season might be by winning the competition.
Liverpool must now navigate a tough game against Newcastle and the Merseyside derby before they host Ancelotti's men.
Topics: Liverpool, Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid, Champions League, Karim Benzema, Thibaut Courtois, Jurgen Klopp, Football
Joe Adams