“Fifty-fifty” – Arne Slot uncertain if Liverpool pair will be ready for Wolves clash at Anfield
Arne Slot has shared the latest fitness news on a number of Liverpool players ahead of their upcoming Premier League match against Wolves.
Liverpool head into the busy festive schedule already short-handed, with Alexander Isak joining the injury list after suffering a fractured fibula. Slot has confirmed the forward will be out for at least a couple of months. He is joined on the sidelines by Conor Bradley, Cody Gakpo, Joe Gomez and Wataru Endo, although there is hope that one or two of those players could return in time for Wolves’ visit to Anfield next Saturday.
Slot provides injury update ahead of Wolves clash
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Slot explained the current situation within his squad.
As quoted by the Liverpool Echo, he said: “Conor is 50/50. He’s not training with us today or tomorrow, and on Friday we’ll see if he can be part of the squad. Joe will not be available, and neither will Wata. Cody’s situation is quite similar to Conor’s.”
There was, however, positive news regarding Florian Wirtz, with Slot confirming that the German midfielder’s substitution against Tottenham was due to cramp rather than injury.
Potential boosts with Bradley and Gakpo
With Gomez definitely missing the Wolves game, Slot will be hoping Bradley can recover in time, as the right-back position remains a concern. The Northern Irishman’s availability is uncertain, but the return of Jeremie Frimpong at least provides a natural option in that role.
Gakpo’s situation looks more encouraging, with Slot suggesting the Dutch forward could be fit for the upcoming fixture. Given Liverpool’s attacking issues — with Isak injured and Mohamed Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations — Gakpo’s return would be a timely lift.
Saturday’s match comes during a brief lull in Liverpool’s schedule, as it is their only game in the final 11 days of December. However, January will be extremely demanding, with nine matches scheduled.
That intense run will further stretch an already thin squad, making player fitness crucial. Slot will be hoping for a clean bill of health against Wolves and that Bradley and Gakpo can both make it back in time to strengthen his options.