Arne Slot provided mixed updates for Liverpool supporters during this morning’s press conference ahead of Sunday’s clash with Manchester United.
The Reds manager confirmed that Joe Gomez’s hamstring injury, sustained in last week’s victory over West Ham, will rule the 27-year-old out for “several weeks.” This is a particularly unwelcome blow in an area where Liverpool have already faced numerous setbacks this season.
Both Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley have been sidelined since late November, but encouragingly, it now seems both are edging closer to making a well-timed return to action.
When asked about the injury situation on Friday, Slot addressed Gomez’s setback before sharing an optimistic update on Konate and Bradley (via liverpoolfc.com): “Conor and Ibou will join training today for the first time, so I’m eager to see exactly where they stand.
“They’ve worked tirelessly to get back into contention, but the next challenge is always, ‘How do they cope in full-team sessions?’ Today, we’ll assess both of them in training.”
Slot also reassured fans that there were no new injury issues ahead of the United match, stating: “Hopefully, apart from Joe Gomez, everyone will be ready to contribute on Sunday.”
While Gomez’s absence is undoubtedly a setback, the potential return of Konate couldn’t come at a better time.
The United fixture might come slightly too soon for him to start, meaning Jarell Quansah is expected to partner Virgil van Dijk at centre-back. However, Konate could make his comeback midweek against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup.
A similar timeline may apply to Bradley, who is unlikely to unseat Trent Alexander-Arnold this weekend but might start against Spurs on Wednesday or Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup next Saturday. He could even feature in both matches to build fitness and give Alexander-Arnold a much-needed breather after a demanding December schedule.
Sunday’s encounter marks the beginning of a hectic January for Liverpool, with eight games on the calendar, including five in just two weeks before the Champions League resumes on 21 January. Squad rotation will be vital for Slot as he navigates this packed schedule.
Although Gomez’s injury is poorly timed, the imminent returns of Konate and Bradley offer some relief. Both are poised to play significant roles as Liverpool juggle four competitions in the second half of the season.
