Danns Left Off Liverpool’s Asia Tour Squad
Striker’s Fitness Concerns Keep Him Grounded
Young Liverpool striker Jayden Danns has been unexpectedly omitted from the squad for the club’s tour of Hong Kong and Japan, despite initial plans for his inclusion.
Precautionary Measure for Danns
The 19-year-old forward, a regular presence in pre-season training under new manager Arne Slot, was a conspicuous absence when the 29-man (soon to be 30 with Hugo Ekitike) travelling party was announced for friendlies against AC Milan and Yokohama F. Marinos. Club sources indicate the decision was made as a precaution, with Liverpool prioritizing his fitness development.
Danns is expected to remain at the AXA Training Centre to continue his work and is anticipated to feature later in pre-season. Liverpool is scheduled to host Athletic Club for back-to-back friendlies at Anfield on August 4, a fixture where his involvement is highly probable.
Past Injury Issues Shape Approach
The club is mindful of the potential risks associated with overexerting Danns, particularly given his history of injury struggles during his youth development. He previously missed approximately eight months due to knee issues related to Osgood-Schlatter’s disease, a period during which he experienced a significant growth spurt of 10 inches.
The increased demands from his rapid progression through the U18 and U21 teams, coupled with first-team minutes, are believed to have contributed to his recent back problem. Medical staff are taking a cautious approach to manage his long-term fitness.
With the confirmed addition of Hugo Ekitike, Arne Slot now has three primary options for the central striker role during the Asian tour, alongside Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz. However, both Nunez and Diaz are subject to significant transfer interest, and it is likely at least one will depart before the transfer window closes.
