Liverpool fans were overjoyed when Senegal were eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations at the weekend because it meant an early return to Anfield for Sadio Mane. It had been hoped the star forward might be able to face Chelsea but doubts remain over his involvement.
Despite Liverpool organising a private jet to fly Mane back from Gabon as quickly as possible, the 24-year-old did not arrive back on Merseyside until Monday evening.
It leaves Klopp now just a few hours to assess the player's fitness ahead of the crunch clash.
Speaking tomediaearlier on Monday, Klopp had said, "We thought it would be possible yesterday, we had the plane there, but he was not allowed to go in the plane so we had to wait. Now it is all good and he will be here tonight at some point, then we will have to see.
"I spoke to him, it's all good so far, but of course he will be in tomorrow (Tuesday) morning and then we have to make a decision. In this moment, I have no idea - I have to look into his eyes and see whatever is possible with him and then make a decision."
Liverpool have struggled in Mane's absence. He is the club's top scorer this season with nine goals and the team has failed to win six of the seven games played since he left for Africa.
15 - Sadio Mane has been directly involved in more goals than any other Liverpool player this season (nine goals, six assists). Option.
Whether he returns to the side against Chelsea or not, Klopp is in no doubt that having him back will be a huge boost as far as the rest of the season is concerned.
"He's a quality player and it's easier if we have him in the team, minimum around the team - that's easier than if you don't have him," the boss explained.
If Mane is notready for Chelsea, he'll definitely be back when Liverpool travel to Hull.
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