Phil Thompson is of the belief that the absence of Mamadou Sakho could have negative connotations for Liverpool.

The French defender is the subject of an anti-doping allegation by UEFA and is facing a lengthy ban if found guilty for taking a banned substance.

Sakho has been in top form at centre-back for the Reds in recent times but former Anfield star Thompson feels that his time away from the team could upset the harmony Jurgen Klopp has created as they strive to win the Europa League.

"I think the big thing for Liverpool as a whole is that it could be disruptive to all the positive vibes that have been around the team and you could do without it," he told Sky Sports.

"It's taking the focus away from what has been achieved and Klopp has got to try and regroup the players in mind and body, but he's absolutely the right man for it."

He added: "In footballing terms, Sakho will be a big miss. He's had his ups and downs but I think everybody has responded to his passion and commitment when it comes to defending and his influence has been massive.

"It will be a big loss but I think it gives (Martin) Skrtel a chance to get back in the side, potentially until the end of the season if it goes badly for Sakho."