Liverpool manager Arne Slot is facing a major selection dilemma ahead of the crucial Merseyside Derby against Everton, with nine key players battling to regain fitness in time for the match.
As the Premier League title race intensifies, the timing of this injury crisis couldn’t be worse for the Reds, who are in desperate need of three points against their local rivals.
Whoβs in Doubt?
Several key players are either ruled out or racing against time to be fit, affecting multiple positions across the squad:
- Trent Alexander-Arnold β Unlikely to return due to a hamstring issue.
- Mohamed Salah β Suffered a muscle injury on international duty but has a chance of playing.
- Diogo Jota β Still recovering from a knee injury and remains a major doubt.
- Andy Robertson β Could be risked despite dealing with a knock.
- Dominik Szoboszlai β Has a minor fitness issue but might be available.
- Curtis Jones & Thiago AlcΓ’ntara β Both sidelined for a while and unlikely to feature.
- Darwin NΓΊΓ±ez β Reportedly carrying a minor foot injury, making his participation uncertain.
- Alisson Becker β Struggling with a muscle problem that could see him miss another key match.
Slotβs Tactical Challenge
With so many injuries, Slot will need to adjust his lineup and strategy. The absence of key figures like Salah, Trent, and Alisson could significantly impact Liverpoolβs attacking and defensive strength, potentially giving Everton a rare opportunity to capitalize.
Can Liverpool Overcome the Setback?
With the Merseyside Derby potentially shaping the season, Liverpool fans eagerly await the final fitness updates. Will the Reds find a way to cope, or will Everton exploit their injury woes to pull off an upset?
