Liverpool star Xherdan Shaqiri admits feeling ‘downbeat’ over lack of game time under Jurgen Klopp
Xherdan Shaqiri has played just 25 minutes of football this season and he is feeling ‘downbeat’ over his lack of game time for Liverpool.
Jurgen Klopp has selected Shaqiri in every one of his matchday squads during 2019/20, but he’s only introduced the Switzerland star off the bench on four occasions.
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Shaqiri is unfortunate that he must play a back-up role with Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah ahead of him, especially as none of that trio have suffered serious injuries since the 27-year-old’s arrival at Anfield from Stoke.
He made a total 30 appearances in all competitions last season, but started only 15 games, and Shaqiri’s situation has clearly not improved since the start of the new campaign.
And the attacking midfielder has admitted he is frustrated over his lack of game time.
Speaking to Teleclub in his homeland, Shaqiri said: “It is not easy for me, of course I am a little downbeat.
“You have to be able to handle that and you have to accept it, I was always still in the squad.
“You cannot ask the coach to play every match.”
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Shaqiri’s fourth appearance of the season came on Tuesday during Liverpool’s Champions League trip to Napoli. He was introduced from the bench with only three minutes remaining as the Reds were downed 2-0 at the San Paolo.
Klopp’s side return to action on Sunday with a visit to Stamford Bridge to take on Frank Lampard’s Chelsea.