Liverpool FC is grappling with injury challenges as manager Arne Slot confirmed that defender Joe Gomez received an injection in his knee last week. Gomez, typically a centre-back, had been expected to step in at right-back following the injury of Jeremie Frimpong due to a hamstring issue. The situation worsened during the international break when Conor Bradley sustained a knock that will keep him sidelined for approximately three weeks.
In the recent Premier League match against Nottingham Forest, Slot opted for Dominik Szoboszlai as a makeshift defender rather than Gomez. This decision has raised questions about Gomez’s fitness and future participation. In a news conference, Slot explained, “He is one of the five defenders we have available. Normally I wouldn’t go into detail maybe that much but he had an injection last week on his knee. So, that means that’s normally not because you don’t feel anything.”
While Slot emphasized Gomez’s inclusion in the squad for the upcoming UEFA Champions League clash against PSV Eindhoven, he also noted that the 28-year-old was not fully fit for training prior to the match. “Although he is in the group tomorrow, as he was on Saturday. But [he] wasn’t able to train last week every single time,” Slot added.
Liverpool heads into the encounter against PSV on the back of a disappointing run, having suffered consecutive 3-0 defeats against Manchester City and Nottingham Forest. These results have left the reigning Premier League champions trailing leaders Arsenal by 11 points. Slot acknowledged the unacceptable nature of his team’s performance this season, stating, “It is ridiculous. It is unbelievable. I have said many times you will never find enough excuses for us to perform like this. It’s unexpected for the club, for me, for everyone.”
As the team prepares for what could be a pivotal match against PSV on October 25, 2023, the pressure mounts not only to improve results but also to address the ongoing injury crisis that has affected their defensive lineup. The coming days will be crucial for Liverpool as they seek to regain their competitive form and navigate the challenges posed by injuries and recent poor performances.
