Gravenberch sidelined for Fenerbahce but eyes weekend return

Liverpool will be without Ryan Gravenberch for their Champions League encounter against Fenerbahce on Wednesday as the midfielder continues to manage a heel fracture injury. Manager Andoni Iraola confirmed the 22-year-old would miss the trip to Turkey while he undergoes recovery.

The Reds' boss indicated there was optimism surrounding Gravenberch's availability for Liverpool's next fixture this weekend, subject to how the player's condition progresses over the coming days. Iraola did not elaborate on the specific timeline or extent of the heel injury.

Gravenberch joined Liverpool from Bayern Munich in the summer transfer window and has featured prominently in the club's campaign so far this season. His absence for the Fenerbahce match will provide an opportunity for alternative midfield options within Iraola's squad.

The Champions League fixture comes at a crucial stage of the group phase, with Liverpool looking to maintain their European challenge while managing the fitness of key players throughout the demanding campaign.