Liverpool manager Arne Slot has delivered a significant double injury boost ahead of his side's pivotal Premier League encounter with Tottenham Hotspur this Saturday. The update comes as a welcome relief for the Reds, who are aiming to build consistency in their pursuit of a top-four spot.
Injury Update Ahead of Crucial Clash
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Slot confirmed that midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has returned to training, while wing-back Jeremie Frimpong is back in the squad. This positive news is tempered by the continued absence of forward Cody Gakpo and defender Joe Gomez for the weekend's fixture.
"Dominik trained yesterday, parts of the training [session], for the first time so let's see where he is today and how he is tomorrow," Slot stated. "Jeremie is in the squad again as well." The manager emphasised a cautious approach, noting that a player's comfort level would dictate their involvement: "If the player feels comfortable to play and he did all the things he had to do, then he will start."
Gakpo Scan Provides Relief
Regarding Cody Gakpo, who suffered an injury earlier this month, Slot revealed more optimistic news than initially feared. "He had a scan that looked promising so that means that we are not that worried anymore, as we were maybe one or two weeks ago," the Dutch coach explained. "So that means he might come back a bit earlier than expected two weeks ago, but that's definitely not tomorrow and also not next week."
These developments arrive at a critical juncture for the reigning champions. Liverpool currently sit seventh in the Premier League table, two points outside the Champions League places, making a successful title defence appear unlikely. The team has, however, secured back-to-back victories across all competitions, defeating Brighton in the league and Inter Milan in Europe.
Frank Acknowledges Liverpool Threat
In his own media briefing, Tottenham boss Thomas Frank was asked about Liverpool's absentees and the potential return of Szoboszlai. The Dane was full of praise for the opposition, highlighting their quality despite their league position.
"I think Liverpool is an excellent team. They were well-deserved champions last year," Frank said. He specifically mentioned the impact of players like Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak, before turning to the midfield. "I think last year they had one of the best midfield three in the league, maybe most complete, in Gravenberch, Mac Allister and Szoboszlai – he’s a beast, he will play tomorrow, of course."
Frank concluded with confidence in his own side's abilities, adding: "So, it's a very good team that we're facing, but also know if we hit a high level, we can compete very well, and I believe we can do something good, and we'll go for the three points."
The match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will be Liverpool's first without star forward Mohamed Salah, who has now departed for the African Cup of Nations. The returns of Szoboszlai and Frimpong will therefore be vital as Slot looks to compensate for that significant loss and ignite a consistent run of form.
