Jordan Henderson to miss Champions League game against Real Madrid due to illness

Liverpool will be without Jordan Henderson when they play Real Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 tie, reports The Athletic.

The Reds face Los Blancos on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabeu.

They lost 5-2 in the first leg of the tie and Henderson has not travelled with them.

The England international midfielder missed training today and is out due to an illness.

Henderson’s absence is a big blow for Jurgen Klopp’s side as they look to turn the tie around.

The 32-year-old has featured in 30 games across all competitions this term.

His influence as captain on the pitch is huge, but Liverpool will be without it tomorrow night.

Thiago Alcantara is still sidelined by a hip problem, and Harvey Elliott, Naby Keita or James Milner will be in contention to start against Madrid.

Liverpool are expected to deploy their three-man system against Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Fabinho is guaranteed to start and Stefan Bajcetic could also get the nod.

Liverpool have a three-goal deficit to overturn, and they will give it their all, as they have nothing to lose.

They are capable of springing a surprise but have badly struggled for consistency this term.

The Reds suffered a 1-0 loss to Bournemouth last Saturday, six days after a 7-0 win over Manchester United.

Madrid are the reigning champions of the competition for a reason.

Despite some recent struggles, the La Liga club will fancy their chances of progressing to the quarter-final.