Liverpool look to start the new year in style when they host rivals Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.
The Reds are flying high at the top of the table and will want to continue their exceptional form in 2025. Their first test comes from their bitter enemies, Man Utd, who head to Anfield lacking confidence and stranded in the bottom half.
Liverpool will be a big favorite to get a good victory on Sunday and their short injury list only strengthens their position.
Here are those who will not be available for Liverpool against Rubén Amorim’s team.
Liverpool would have enjoyed a perfect away day against West Ham United last weekend had it not been for Joe Gomez’s injury. The centre-back limped off the game in the 37th minute of the 5-0 win and was replaced by youngster Jarell Quansah.
Unfortunately for the Reds, Gomez will be absent for the foreseeable future after suffering a hamstring strain, and Slot confirmed that he is guaranteed to be sidelined for at least “a few weeks.”
“Joe, of course, is not in a good situation when it comes to his injury. He will be out for a few weeks, that’s for sure,” the Dutchman admitted.
Ibrahima Konate has been a notable absence from Liverpool’s defense recently after suffering a knee injury during the 2-0 win over Actual Madrid at the end of November. He has been absent since then, but could return this weekend against the Purple Devils.
Slot confirmed that the centre-back returned to full team training on Friday ahead of the visit of Man Utd, but that does not necessarily guarantee him a place in the starting line-up or matchday squad. However, it is likely to be available in some form.
Conor Bradley has also been absent since the Champions League win over Actual Madrid, with the right-back suffering a hamstring injury against the reigning European champions. However, like Konate, Slot has revealed that Bradley could return on Sunday.
“Conor and Ibou will train with us today (Friday) for the first time,” Slot said in his pre-match press conference.
“So, (I am) curious and interested to see where they are exactly, of course. They’ve worked hard to get back into the team, but the next step is always, “How do you handle team sessions?” The two of them will train with us today.
“Hopefully everyone is ready, except Joe Gomez, to be a part of Sunday’s game.”
Liverpool players are missing for the clash against Manchester United
Player |
State |
---|---|
Joe Gomez |
Outside |
Ibrahima Konate |
Available |
Conor Bradley |
Available |