Nathaniel Clyne suffers new injury setback for Liverpool as the England star sweats on his World Cup hopes

NATHANIEL CLYNE’S Liverpool return has been delayed again.

The England right-back might even be pondering on his World Cup chances for next summer after his latest problem with a back injury.

Anfield chief Jurgen Klopp admits the 26-year-old had taken “a few steps back” after returning to training.

Youngsters Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold have taken advantage of Clyne‘s season-long absence – both leapfrogging Jon Flanagan as his stand-in.

But fifth-placed Liverpool have let in 17 goals in 11 Premier League games this term.

And Klopp will be craving the type of solidity across his defence that a fully-fit Clyne offers down the right.

Asked if his former Southampton star was finally ready to return, Klopp said: “No. You cannot rush it.

“He was in a good way, running with high intensity, stuff like this. But the muscle showed a little reaction.

“That was not an injury, and usually with a healthy and fit player you wouldn’t even think about it.

“But in his case, because it was a little sign again from the back, we took him out and it’s a few steps back again.”

Clyne will still expect to return within weeks – while another ex-Saint, England midfielder Adam Lallana, is in an even stronger position.

Lallana, 29, has also yet to play this season as he battles with a thigh injury.

But he resumed full training this week and could return straight after next week’s international break.