Liverpool expect Fabinho back for Champions League final against Real Madrid

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed midfielder Fabinho will miss the FA Cup Final on Saturday, but he expects the Brazilian to be fit for the Champions League final.

Fabinho suffered a hamstring tweak in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Aston Villa on Tuesday and will play no part in the remainder of the domestic campaign.

But Klopp delivered better news regarding the clash with Real Madrid in Paris on May 28.

“There’s a good chance that he will be available for the Champions League final,” said a relieved Klopp.

Losing Fabinho at Wembley this weekend is a setback, however,

Asked if his side can cope without their number six, Klopp said: “We have to. Because we can cope. Having him or not having him is a difference but it is all fine. That’s normal stuff that happens. It’s never in a position where you have 12 options, it’s always in a position where you [don’t]. We have a few players. Hendo (Jordan Henderson) came on and played incredible, he has played super games this season at 6 so that is not a problem.”

Liverpool feared Fabinho would not return until pre-season when he hobbled off after 30 minutes in midweek, although Klopp suggested immediately after the game that the player thought it a minor injury rather than a serious tear.

Scans have confirmed the possibility of a swift recovery.

Henderson and Thiago Alcantara are sure to start against Chelsea if fit, with Naby Keita most likely to complete the three-man midfield.

Fabinho has been rarely absent this season, his presence critical to Liverpool’s form across all competitions.

He spent most of last season as an emergency centre-back, but it was after his reintegration into his favoured position Liverpool embarked on the winning run which earned qualification into this year’s Champions League.

Liverpool’s chances of victory over Carlo Ancelotti’s side will be significantly enhanced if Fabinho continues to respond positively to treatment over the next two weeks.