Arne Slot has delivered a mixed injury update ahead of the highly anticipated Merseyside Derby against Everton on Wednesday. While Trent Alexander-Arnold is closing in on a return, Joe Gomez has been ruled out after suffering a suspected re-injury.
Alexander-Arnold, who missed the last two games with a thigh injury sustained in the 2-0 win over Bournemouth, has resumed partial training. Slot revealed, “Trent has done parts of training sessions with us. Not full sessions, but he trained yesterday. We’ll see how he is today and decide if he’s ready for the game.”
However, the news is less encouraging for Gomez, who faces another spell on the sidelines. Slot confirmed, “Joe has injured the same leg as before. We’re still assessing it, but he will definitely not be available tomorrow.” When asked if the recurrence in the same leg was concerning, Slot admitted, “That’s mostly a concern.”
Liverpool will also be without Tyler Morton for the Merseyside Derby, while several academy players, including Trey Nyoni and Amara Nallo, have travelled with the U19s squad. With the Reds now out of the FA Cup, opportunities for young players may be limited, but injuries will continue to influence Slot’s selection decisions.
Conor Bradley, who was rested for the FA Cup defeat to Plymouth, is expected to start at right-back against Everton. Slot’s side will be looking to bounce back from their cup exit and maintain their focus on the Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
The potential return of Alexander-Arnold would provide a significant boost for the Merseyside Derby, but Gomez’s absence is a blow to Liverpool’s defensive options. As the season reaches a critical stage, managing injuries will be vital to the Reds’ hopes of securing silverware.
