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Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema has suffered an injury scare ahead of Los Blancos’ Champions League clash with Liverpool.
Despite a crucial 2-0 against Everton in the Merseyside Derby on Monday, Liverpool are languishing in ninth in the Premier League, some nine points adrift of the top four.
Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp’s side are out of both domestic cups and have drawn Madrid in the last-16 of the Champions League, in a repeat of last season’s final.
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However, the Reds’ hopes of reaching the competition’s last eight have been given a massive boost with Madrid duo Benzema and Toni Kroos doubts for Tuesday’s first leg.
Benzema and Kroos doubts for Liverpool clash
According to a Madrid-based journalist, Benzema will be kept wrapped in cotton wool this weekend in preparation for the La Liga giants’ Champions League showdown with Liverpool.
The France international, who was the winner of the 2022 Ballon d’Or, netted twice as Carlo Ancelotti’s side claimed a 4-0 win over Elche last weekend. However, Benzema is reported to have finished the game in “slight discomfort”.
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In turn, Madrid are expected to rest the 35-year-old for their weekend trip to Osasuna.
In a tweet, Journalist Alberto Pereiro claimed: "Karim Benzema will not be at the weekend vs Osasuna in Pamplona. Yesterday (he) finished limping, there is no injury but they don't want trouble for Tuesday at Anfield."
Benzema has had a season plagued by injury problems. The Frenchman has been ruled out of 11 matches for the Madristas this term, while he was forced out of Les Bleus’ World Cup squad.
Nevertheless, the striker has still claimed 14 goals and provided four assists in his 22 matches in all competitions this season.
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Furthermore, Kroos has been recovering from a bout of gastroenteritis and will play no part in Real's trip to Osasuna, while his chances of featuring against Liverpool are doubtful.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Football, Karim Benzema, Toni Kroos, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Champions League, Premier League