Liverpool's threadbare squad depth is under scrutiny once again after Joe Gomez was forced off with a muscle issue during a pre-season friendly against Sunderland, according to Sky Sports.
The centre-back's setback highlights a defensive area already stretched thin, yet the Reds are not expected to move for a replacement before the window shuts, the report states.
Sky Sports also flags right-back and the wide forward positions as further areas of concern heading into the new campaign, suggesting new boss Andoni Iraola faces some tough calls on where to prioritise reinforcements with limited numbers to call upon.
With pre-season injuries already testing resources, the report implies Liverpool may have to make do with what they have in several key areas rather than dip into the market again, leaving Iraola to manage a squad short on cover in defence and going forward as the season approaches.