Liverpool midfielder called up by Guinea despite hamstring injury

The National Elephants are keen to reintegrate Naby Keita into their squad.

Guinea coach Kaba Diawara has confirmed his decision to call up Naby Keita for his side’s upcoming friendly matches.

Keita has stayed out of action after picking up a hamstring injury during Liverpool’s Community Shield win over Manchester City last month.

Several English sources have speculated the midfielder won’t be back any time soon. However, that hasn’t convinced Guinea to decide against calling him up for their upcoming friendlies.

“Naby Keita is injured and he is recovering from his injury,” he said. “His situation is improving and he is even ahead of schedule.

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“We took a group of 24 players precisely to give him a chance to be able to count on him because he is a very important player for us, on and off the pitch, he is our captain.”

Keita is reportedly concerned with his place in Liverpool’s pecking order. Talks for the midfielder’s contract extension have stalled in recent weeks.

However, Liverpool’s poor form at the beginning of the current season might convince them to push harder toward reaching an agreement with Keita.

The Reds refused to sell the experienced midfielder last summer as he entered the final year of his contract. However, they might consider his exit this winter to avoid a free summer departure.