Liverpool fans have been rocked by widespread reports that Jurgen Klopp's right-hand man Zeljko Buvac has left the club.

The blow comes just two days before the Merseyside outfit try to secure a place in the Champions League final.

Buvac has a strong bond with Klopp having met the German at Mainz when both were players at the club.

Since the 50-year-old embarked on a coaching career, Buvac has been right alongside him, but now there are doubts over the pair's working relationship.

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According to the Daily Record, Buvac has left the Merseyside outfit following a dispute with his long-time friend, but there have been conflicting reports.

The Liverpool Echo states that the assistant manager, who is believed to be the brains behind Liverpool's Gegenpresseng approach, has not quit his role but will not see out the rest of the season as he will take a leave of absence.

With the Reds' most important game of the season just around the corner, fans are concerned about the news of Buvac's absence.

Liverpool, who had to settle for a goalless draw against Stoke City last weekend, head into the Champions League semi-final second leg at the Stadio Olimpico with a 5-2 advantage.