Liverpool maintained their perfect start to the Premier League season with a derby victory over Everton, but manager Arne Slot quickly turned his attention to the Carabao Cup, confirming that key players will be rested in the upcoming match against Southampton. The 47-year-old made it clear that stars like Virgil van Dijk, Ibou Konate, Mo Salah, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai will sit out Tuesday’s game, emphasizing the importance of squad depth during this busy schedule.
Slot praised Liverpool’s squad strength after the Everton win
In an interview with liverpoolfc.com, the Dutch coach said: “This is why teams like us and Chelsea, who compete in Europe, need such a strong squad because the number of matches is intense. It’s not an excuse—we have to accept the situation—but we’ve faced challenges, like Alexander Isak being out of training for four months and Alexis Mac Allister missing a lot. I could go on.
“The positive side is that I have options to rotate players throughout the week.”
This squad depth was evident against Everton, where expensive signings Florian Wirtz and Isak both started on the bench despite their combined £241 million price tag. Instead, Gravenberch and new summer recruit Hugo Ekitike each scored, highlighting how well-balanced Liverpool’s team has become under Slot, who particularly praised No. 38. Isak’s fitness has been carefully managed by Liverpool’s medical staff following his record British transfer.
Confirmed Liverpool absences for Southampton
When asked about his Carabao Cup lineup, the former Feyenoord manager was straightforward: “I can tell you now they won’t be playing on Tuesday. If that helps Southampton, then they’ll know.”
With Van Dijk, Konate, Salah, Gravenberch, and Szoboszlai all set to miss out, chances will likely be handed to fringe players, including youngsters and recent signings. Liverpool fans will hope this rotation strategy keeps the champions fresh and competitive.
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