Liverpool may receive a double boost ahead of their clash with Tottenham Hotspur — a lift that could further power Arne Slot’s new tactical approach.
Liverpool could welcome back both Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong for Saturday’s clash with Tottenham Hotspur, offering a timely boost in a problem position.
Right-back has been a constant headache for the Reds this season. As many as six different players have featured there in the Premier League, and the campaign hasn’t even reached the halfway mark. That lack of continuity has played a role in Liverpool’s title challenge fading before Christmas.
For the trip to North London, however, Arne Slot may finally have two natural options available. Joe Gomez was forced off early in last weekend’s 2–0 win over Brighton, once again sidelined by injury concerns that have plagued him in recent years. His withdrawal could spell another spell out of action.
The good news is that Conor Bradley returns after serving a one-match suspension for five yellow cards. The Northern Ireland international has struggled for rhythm this season, with two separate injury layoffs limiting his minutes and complicating his bid to step out of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shadow.
Meanwhile, Jeremie Frimpong has also endured a frustrating start since arriving from Bayer Leverkusen for £29m. Two hamstring injuries have restricted him to just nine appearances, with the latest setback ruling him out for nearly two months after the Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt. Slot has hinted Frimpong could resume training this week, and with Liverpool short on senior options, a place on the bench is possible if he comes through unscathed.
Liverpool will still travel to Spurs without their first-choice wingers. Mohamed Salah is away with Egypt at AFCON, while Cody Gakpo remains injured. Even so, neither may have started given Slot’s recent tactical shift.
The Dutchman has moved away from his preferred 4-2-3-1, opting instead for a 4-4-2 diamond. The change has paid dividends, with five games unbeaten and a rise to seventh in the Premier League. The midfield quartet of Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones and Mac Allister has brought greater control, while also allowing Florian Wirtz to operate in the left half-spaces.
That system could suit Bradley perfectly. With the midfield packed centrally, space opens up for full-backs to push forward. Gomez showed that against Brighton, getting high up the pitch and even assisting Hugo Ekitike inside the opening minute. Bradley’s more attacking instincts should benefit even more, especially with Gravenberch or Jones providing defensive cover behind him.
Bradley also impressed in a brief Champions League cameo against Inter Milan, showing energy, confidence and nearly scoring during his 22 minutes on the pitch.
When fully fit, Frimpong could also thrive in this shape. At Leverkusen, he operated largely as a wing-back, producing an impressive 30 goals and 44 assists in 190 appearances. His delivery from wide areas could be key in helping Alexander Isak ignite his Liverpool career after a slow start in front of goal.
On the opposite flank, Milos Kerkez has begun to find his feet. The £40m signing from Bournemouth looked tentative early on, but a run of solid displays has boosted his confidence and steadied his performances.