Xherdan Shaqiri a huge injury doubt for Norwich opener

Xherdan Shaqiri faces missing the start of the season after returning injured to Melwood on Monday.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that Shaqiri is still struggling with a calf injury he picked up during Switzerland’s Nations League clash with England on June 9.

The Reds kick-off their pre-season matches this week with a trip to Tranmere on Thursday before a visit to Bradford on Sunday afternoon in a fundraiser for Stephen Darby.

The 27-year-old, who was hampered by a pubic injury towards the end of last season, returned to Melwood yesterday for further medical tests with the club’s doctors.

“Shaq is still injured from the national team and it will take a while until he is in again,” Klopp told Liverpoolfc.com.

“He has a tear in his calf, so he will not be involved for a while.”

Last month Shaqiri, who is contracted until 2023, shut down speculation suggesting he was looking to leave Anfield.

“I’m at Liverpool FC, the best club in Europe,” Shaqiri told Goal.

“The manager has many good options and has to decide who can play. I knew before my transfer that the competition here is very tough.

“I have a long-term contract and I definitely will stay.”

Liverpool kick off the season against Norwich on August 9, and with it being “a while” until he can train again, Shaqiri already looks like a doubt for the opener in a month’s time.