Slot drops major update on five Liverpool stars ahead of Brighton clash.
Liverpool host Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield on Saturday, and the fixture could pose a real challenge for the title holders.
Liverpool Fitness Update Ahead of Brighton Clash
Arne Slot addressed several injury concerns during his pre-match press conference after the midweek Champions League victory over Inter Milan.
The manager confirmed that Federico Chiesa has recovered from his recent illness and is back in full training.
“Federico is no longer ill. He trained yesterday and again today, so I expect he’ll be available for the squad tomorrow,” Slot said.
However, the news isn’t as positive for Wataru Endo and Cody Gakpo.
“It’s going to be weeks,” Slot warned. “Cody’s dealing with a muscle problem and Wata has an ankle injury.”
Slot also noted he will need to assess Alexander Isak’s condition following a knock he picked up during the Inter match.
“Alex took a knock in the first half. We’ll see how he’s recovered today before deciding if he can start. If he is, I’ll consider whether to play him with Hugo Ekitike again or adjust things,” he added.
Concerns over Isak’s fitness come after his underwhelming performance in Italy, where one analyst remarked he “struggled with the physicality and intensity of the game.”
With Chiesa returning but Gakpo still out—and Isak potentially limited—Hugo Ekitike may have to carry much of Liverpool’s attacking load.
Meanwhile, Mo Salah has yet to fully reintegrate into the squad, leaving Liverpool’s frontline thinner than usual and putting more weight on Slot’s selection decisions.
Salah, Isak, and Liverpool’s Attacking Picture
The big question now is whether Salah will feature before leaving for AFCON duty.
Slot revealed he still needed to speak with the Egyptian:
“I’ll have a conversation with Mo this morning. The outcome of that will determine what Saturday looks like,” he said, leaving supporters wondering whether the No.11 will be brought back into the fold or kept out again.
With Chiesa available and Ekitike ready to lead the line, Slot’s management of injuries and forward options will heavily influence Liverpool’s approach against Brighton.
His decisions could play a vital role in extending the Reds’ unbeaten run and maintaining momentum heading into the busy festive period.