Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has been criticised by former Hungary coach János Csank over his handling of Dominik Szoboszlai's injury during Sunday's 3-1 victory against Crystal Palace.
The midfielder required treatment for a knee problem in the first half at Selhurst Park but returned after the interval before being substituted in the 69th minute.
His fitness is now uncertain ahead of Hungary's Nations League fixtures against Georgia and Northern Ireland.
Csank questions Liverpool's decision to keep Szoboszlai on
Speaking to Hungarian newspaper Blikk, Csank questioned why Liverpool allowed Szoboszlai to continue after receiving treatment.
"I was really annoyed. Szoboszlai went down in the first half, and at half-time I was certain he wouldn't come back out," he said.
"Then I saw him standing on the pitch with black strapping around his leg and knee."
Csank believed the midfielder should have been withdrawn while Liverpool were leading.
"He should have been substituted immediately. They were 1-0 up," he argued.
"I just don't understand these situations. They consider him their most valuable player, yet they leave him on the pitch injured when they're winning."
Iraola subsequently acknowledged the concern surrounding Szoboszlai's knee.
The Liverpool manager said the midfielder was not fully fit and needed medical assessment before a decision could be made about international duty.
However, there is no evidence that playing on aggravated the injury.
Hungary await decision ahead of Georgia clash
Szoboszlai has joined Hungary's squad despite the setback, but his involvement remains uncertain.
The 26-year-old underwent medical tests and was restricted to rehabilitation work during Tuesday's training session.
Liverpool teammate Milos Kerkez also trained separately, following an individual programme.
Csank believes Hungary should avoid placing too many responsibilities on Szoboszlai if he is fit enough to play.
"Let the others provide for him, and let him strengthen the attack with everything he's got," he said.
The former coach argued that Szoboszlai would be most effective receiving possession in advanced areas rather than repeatedly dropping deep to build attacks.
Hungary face Georgia on 14 November before hosting Northern Ireland three days later.
Liverpool, meanwhile, will want their midfielder available for the Premier League meeting with Manchester United after the international break.
Key Points
- Csank criticised Liverpool for allowing Szoboszlai to continue after first-half knee treatment.
- Iraola acknowledged the injury concern, but there is no evidence playing on worsened it.
- Hungary are assessing their captain before the Nations League match against Georgia.
What's Next?
Hungary's medical staff will determine whether Szoboszlai can face Georgia on Saturday, with Liverpool monitoring his recovery ahead of the Manchester United fixture.
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