Jurgen Klopp explains Thiago and Darwin Nunez absences vs Nottingham Forest

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has offered an explanation for the absence of two of his key players, Thiago Alcantara and Darwin Nunez, ahead of Saturday's trip to Nottingham Forest.

Liverpool go into the clash at the City Ground as overwhelming favourites, having won their last three games in all competitions.

However, Nunez failed to recover from the injury that saw him substituted against West Ham in midweek, while midfielder Thiago is suffering from illness.

Speaking to BT Sport ahead of Saturday's game, Klopp said: “For Darwin the game comes too early, he still feels the intensity of the game muscle-wise so there was no chance he could play today. Maybe he could play tomorrow or on Monday but not today.

“And Thiago got a bad ear infection overnight. The decision was made this morning at 5:15. That’s how it is sometimes and that’s the reason for that.”

Nunez, an £85m summer signing from Benfica, has endured a difficult start to life at Anfield but seems to be finding his feet. He scored the only goal in the win over West Ham prior to being substituted and recently scored his first Champions League goal for the club in a 7-1 thrashing of Rangers.

Meanwhile, Thiago's smooth passing and unflappable demeanour have made him one of the league's most popular midfielders. However, the 31-year-old has consistently struggled for fitness during his time in the North West and has spent a fair amount of time on the treatment table.

Liverpool are yet to win away from home in the Premier League this season, but will fancy their chances against a Nottingham Forest side rooted to the bottom of the table. A win could take Klopp's side as high as fifth in the table, offering a boost to their Champions League hopes.