Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has several key players struggling to make the Champions League opening leg at the Wanda Metropolitano against Champions League holders Liverpool, according to Diario AS.
Jürgen Klopp’s side visit Madrid on February 18 and are unbeaten since September 17.
Atlético and Liverpool have both conceded 15 league goals, however in the Premier League Liverpool have scored 60 to Atlético’s poor return of 23 in La Liga.
Simeone has a week to get several key players back to fitness ahead of the first leg.
Diego Costa
The veteran striker has been out since November with a herniated disc but is training with the squad and has a chance of making the Liverpool game.
João Félix
The 20-year-old has missed the last two games with a muscle injury and will not be risked against Valencia at the weekend in the hope of having him in the match-day squad for Liverpool.
Álvaro Morata
The Spain international should be fit for Valencia on Friday. It remains to be seen whether he will be in the squad or rested for Liverpool.
José Giménez
The Uruguayan is struggling with a muscle injury and missed the last four league games. He is, however, expected to return for the visit to Valencia on Friday.
Héctor Herrera
Tendinitis has kept the Mexican midfielder out of the last two games but he should be back in training this week.
Kieran Trippier
The right-back had surgery on his groin last week and will miss the first leg.
