Arne Slot has expressed optimism about the chances of Andy Robertson remaining at the club beyond this month amid interest from league rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
The Europa League champions have held talks with the Reds over a possible transfer for the Scotland captain who is out of contract in the summer.
However, Liverpool are not willing to let the 31-year-old leave the club until they get a replacement, making the deal very unlikely to happen with just few days left in the transfer window.
Speaking ahead of their Champions League clash against Qarabag on Wednesday, Slot confirmed that Robertson took part in training and is available for selection for the match.
“Robbo is part of the team tomorrow evening. He has been part of this squad for so many years. I am happy to have him and I am glad he is available because that is not normal for us right now”, Slot said.
“He will be part of the team and nothing is happening on this side. It’s hard to say anything definite in this world we are in but I expect him to stay.”
Robertson has reiterated his desire for more playing minutes as he looks to keep in shape for the FIFA World Cup in the summer.
The arrival of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth last summer had limited his playing minutes, with both players rotating time on the left side of the defence.
Slot also confirmed that Liverpool currently face injury crisis in the center-back position, with Virgil Van Dijk the only available senior option in the squad.
Joe Gomez sustained an injury in the defeat to Bournemouth, while Ibrahima Konate is away due to personal matters.
“For sure at centre-back tomorrow there will not be a centre-back,” Slot said.
“I can only play a midfielder as there are no centre-backs available apart from Virgil [Van Dijk]. I credit him a lot for being fit all the time, at his age to constantly be ready to play another 90 is something we should not take for granted.”
Liverpool conclude their Champions League league-phase campaign with a home clash against Qarabag tonight, hoping for a win to seal a top-eight finish.
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