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Introduction
Liverpool FC is set to host Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League, but Arne Slot’s side will be missing some key players due to injuries and suspensions. With the Reds aiming to maintain their title charge, the absence of crucial squad members could impact their performance. Here is a detailed look at Reds current injury list, suspensions, and squad availability ahead of the fixture against Wolves.
Injuries
Cody Gakpo – Doubtful Due to Knock in Merseyside Derby
Dutch forward Cody Gakpo suffered a knock during the recent Merseyside derby against Everton and remains a doubt for the upcoming match against Wolves. Arne Slot, Liverpool’s head coach, provided an update on February 14, stating:
“Cody is a bit of a doubt as well, so let’s wait [to see] how he is today. I had to take him off because of an injury, because he got a knock, so let’s see how he is today.”
Gakpo’s absence would be a significant setback for Reds, given his ability to play across the front three and contribute both as a goal scorer and a creative force. If he is not deemed fit, Slot may need to make tactical adjustments in attack, possibly relying more on Darwin Núñez, Luis Díaz, or Diogo Jota to fill the void.
Joe Gomez – Ruled Out Due to Injury
Joe Gomez was forced off early in Liverpool’s FA Cup defeat at Plymouth Argyle, and he has now been ruled out of the clash against Wolves. The defender’s absence limits Arne Slot’s options at the back, particularly in terms of rotational depth.
Gomez has been a versatile asset for Reds this season, playing as a right-back, left-back, and center-back when needed. With his absence confirmed, the Reds might need to deploy Conor Bradley or shift Trent Alexander-Arnold to a more defensive role.
Tyler Morton – Long-Term Shoulder Injury
Young midfielder Tyler Morton is also unavailable due to a shoulder injury that will keep him sidelined for an extended period. Slot confirmed that Morton is facing a lengthy spell out, stating:
“The midfielder is currently dealing with a shoulder injury that will keep him sidelined for weeks or maybe even longer.”
While Morton has not been a regular starter, his absence still reduces Liverpool’s midfield options, especially in terms of squad rotation. With fixtures piling up, his availability would have provided some much-needed depth in midfield.
Suspensions
Curtis Jones – One-Match Suspension
Midfielder Curtis Jones is set to miss Reds next Premier League match after receiving two yellow cards in the 2-2 draw against Everton. This means he will serve a one-match suspension and will not be available for selection against Wolves.
Jones has been an influential figure in Liverpool’s midfield, providing energy, pressing, and ball progression. His absence leaves Arne Slot with a decision to make regarding who will replace him in the starting XI. Potential replacements include Harvey Elliott, Ryan Gravenberch, or Alexis Mac Allister moving into a more advanced role.
Potential Lineup Adjustments
Given the current injuries and suspensions, Liverpool’s lineup against Wolves could see some reshuffling. Here is a potential starting XI that Slot might opt for:
Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker
Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Andy Robertson
Midfielders: Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Harvey Elliott
Forwards: Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez, Mohamed Salah
This lineup accounts for the absences of Gomez, Morton, and Jones, while also factoring in the potential unavailability of Gakpo.
Tactical Considerations
Adjustments in Midfield
With Curtis Jones unavailable, Slot might need to tweak the midfield setup. Mac Allister could operate as the deepest midfielder, with Szoboszlai and Elliott providing attacking thrust. Alternatively, Wataru Endo could be deployed in a more defensive role to add stability.
Defensive Depth Concerns
Joe Gomez’s absence leaves Reds with fewer options in defense. While the first-choice back four is still intact, any further injuries could create significant challenges. Conor Bradley or Kostas Tsimikas might see playing time if adjustments are necessary.
Attack Without Gakpo?
If Gakpo is unable to play, Liverpool’s front three will likely consist of Díaz, Núñez, and Salah. This setup still offers plenty of attacking threat, with Salah’s goal-scoring prowess, Núñez’s physical presence, and Díaz’s dribbling ability.
Wolves’ Threat
Wolves have proven to be a resilient side this season, capable of challenging top teams. With Matheus Cunha and Hwang Hee-chan in good form, Reds defense will need to stay sharp. The midfield battle will also be crucial, especially with Jones missing and Morton unavailable.
Liverpool’s ability to control possession and dictate the tempo will be key in securing a positive result. Given the injury setbacks, Slot might emphasize defensive discipline while relying on the attacking trio to make the difference in the final third.
Conclusion
Liverpool head into their Premier League clash against Wolves with a few selection headaches due to injuries and suspensions. Cody Gakpo remains a doubt, Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton are ruled out due to injuries, and Curtis Jones is suspended. Despite these setbacks, the Reds still have a strong squad capable of securing a vital three points.
Arne Slot will need to make strategic decisions regarding his starting lineup and tactical approach. With key players unavailable, squad depth will be tested, and Reds must rise to the occasion.
Fans will be hoping for a positive outcome, with the expectation that those sidelined will return soon to bolster the squad for the challenges ahead. Until then, Reds must rely on their available players to maintain their title push and secure another crucial victory at Anfield.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com