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Liverpool head to north London on Saturday evening for a Premier League showdown with Tottenham Hotspur, and both sides arrive with plenty to consider. Squad availability, recent form, and a rare full week of training all shape the build-up to a fixture that often delivers drama. With Arne Slot and Thomas Frank both facing selection challenges, this match feels like a test of depth as much as quality. Here is a complete look at the team news, manager comments, and how both sides line up heading into the weekend.
Liverpool Boosted by Bradley and Frimpong Returns
Liverpool have received a timely lift with Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong both available again for the trip to Spurs.
Frimpong has been declared fit after recovering from the injury he picked up away at Eintracht Frankfurt in October. His return adds pace and attacking threat on the right side, something Liverpool have missed during his absence. Bradley is also back in contention after serving a suspension that ruled him out of last weekend’s 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion. His return is especially important given the recent injury issues at right-back.
Defensive Concerns for the Reds
Despite those positive updates, Liverpool will still travel with some notable absentees. Joe Gomez has been ruled out after picking up a muscle injury against Brighton. He was forced off during that match and replaced at right-back by Dominik Szoboszlai, who then suffered an ankle issue late in the game. Cody Gakpo is also unavailable, although there is cautious optimism surrounding his recovery. Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Arne Slot offered an encouraging update.
“He had a scan that looked promising so that means that we are not that worried anymore, as we were maybe one or two weeks ago,” Slot explained. “That means he might come back a bit earlier than expected two weeks ago, but that’s definitely not tomorrow and also not next week.”
While Gakpo’s absence will be felt, the news suggests his return is on the horizon.
Szoboszlai Fitness a Late Decision
Dominik Szoboszlai’s availability remains one of the key talking points ahead of kick-off. The midfielder trained partially on Thursday, his first involvement since picking up the ankle issue. Slot confirmed that his participation in the final training session would determine whether he can start against Spurs.
“Dominik trained yesterday, parts of the training session, for the first time so let’s see where he is today and how he is tomorrow,” Slot said. “If the player feels comfortable to play and he did all the things he had to do, then he will start. If he fulfils it but doesn’t feel comfortable himself, we will have a discussion.”
Liverpool will be hoping for positive signs, especially with Mohamed Salah unavailable due to his Africa Cup of Nations commitments.
AFCON Absences Affect Both Sides
Salah’s absence continues to reshape Liverpool’s attacking approach, placing more responsibility on players like Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike. Tottenham are also feeling the impact of the Africa Cup of Nations. Midfielders Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr are both away on international duty, leaving Thomas Frank short of options in the centre of the pitch. These absences could influence the tempo and structure of the match, particularly in midfield battles.
Tottenham’s Injury List Still a Concern
While Spurs have no new injury worries following their 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, their existing list of unavailable players remains lengthy. Radu Dragusin, Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, Dominic Solanke, Kota Takai, and Destiny Udogie all remain sidelined.
Several of those names represent significant attacking and creative output, something Spurs have struggled to replace consistently.Thomas Frank confirmed that nothing has changed on the availability front.
“Everyone is doing fine. Last game, it’s the same players available. No-one new is available in the squad,” he said.
Value of a Full Training Week
One positive for both teams is the lack of midweek fixtures, allowing for a full week on the training pitch. For Tottenham, that time has been especially valuable as they look to respond to a disappointing loss last weekend. Frank emphasized how important the break has been.
“It’s been nice to finally have a full training week. That helps,” he said. “We have a few good players out with a lot of goals and assists in them.”
He also addressed concerns about energy levels.
“A full week definitely helps a lot. I would be very surprised if we don’t have the energy. If you play in the Premier League and Europe at the same time, it is a massive physical and mental load, but no excuses. That’s what we want.”
Liverpool similarly benefit from the extra preparation time as Arne Slot continues to shape his side during his first season in charge.
Looking Back at the Last Matches
Tottenham come into this fixture after a heavy 3-0 defeat away to Nottingham Forest on December 14. Spurs struggled to cope defensively and failed to make an impact going forward. Liverpool, by contrast, are riding the momentum of a solid 2-0 home win over Brighton & Hove Albion on December 13. Goals and control defined that performance, even though it came with injury concerns.
Tottenham’s Last XI vs Nottingham Forest
Vicario, Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence, Bentancur, Gray, Simons, Kudus, Kolo Muani, Richarlison.
Liverpool’s Last XI vs Brighton
Alisson, Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Jones, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Ekitike. Those line-ups highlight how much both managers may need to adjust ahead of Saturday’s meeting.
What to Expect on Saturday Night
This fixture brings together two teams eager to prove a point. Tottenham will want to show resilience after last weekend’s setback, while Liverpool aim to maintain momentum despite missing key players. The battle on the flanks could be decisive, especially if Frimpong features. Midfield control will also be crucial, with both sides missing influential players through injury and international duty. For Liverpool, composure and defensive stability will be vital away from home. For Spurs, intensity and energy, backed by home support, could make the difference.
Final Thoughts
Tottenham Hotspur vs Liverpool always carries weight, and this meeting is no different. Squad depth, fitness decisions, and tactical discipline will all play a role in shaping the outcome. With returning players boosting Liverpool and a full week of preparation helping Spurs, Saturday evening promises a competitive and compelling Premier League contest. Fans can expect commitment, quality, and plenty of talking points when the teams take to the pitch in north London.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com