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Liverpool head into the Emirates FA Cup third round with clear intent, as Arne Slot confirmed he will field the strongest squad possible when the Reds host Barnsley at Anfield on Monday night. Speaking at his pre match press conference, the Liverpool head coach underlined the importance of the FA Cup, provided key fitness updates on several first team players, and addressed the serious injury suffered by Conor Bradley. With Liverpool no longer involved in the League Cup this season, Slot has made it clear that the FA Cup now carries even greater weight. Combined with the latest injury developments, his comments offer a revealing look at Liverpool’s short term plans and selection strategy.
FA Cup Declared a Major Priority
Arne Slot did not hesitate when asked about the importance of the FA Cup. The Liverpool boss stressed that the competition matters deeply to him and to the club, especially given the current context of the season. Last season, Slot admitted he was forced to rotate heavily due to the demands of competing on multiple fronts. With Liverpool balancing league, European football, and domestic cups, difficult choices had to be made. This time, the picture looks different.
With the Reds already out of the League Cup, Slot confirmed that the approach to the FA Cup will change. Supporters can expect to see a lineup that closely resembles Liverpool’s strongest available side, rather than a heavily rotated team. He explained that while some substitutions may occur, the core group of players who featured recently will either start or be ready on the bench. That signals a serious approach and a desire to avoid any early cup upset.
Lessons From Plymouth and Respect for Barnsley
Liverpool fans will remember last season’s FA Cup disappointment against Plymouth Argyle, and Slot acknowledged that such results serve as reminders of how unpredictable cup football can be. However, he was quick to point out that comparisons only go so far. A difficult away trip with a rotated squad is very different from hosting Barnsley at Anfield with a near full strength lineup.
That said, Slot made it clear that Barnsley will not be underestimated. He even highlighted that the last time the two sides met at Anfield, back in 2008, it was Barnsley who came away with the win. That historical result has not been forgotten, and it adds extra motivation for Liverpool to approach the tie with focus and respect. Slot emphasized that cup competitions demand the right mentality regardless of the opponent or division.
Hugo Ekitike Fitness Boost Offers Hope
One of the most closely watched updates concerned Hugo Ekitike, who has become Liverpool’s top scorer this season. Slot confirmed that Ekitike’s availability for Monday night is still not guaranteed, but the club is doing everything possible to have him fit.
The French forward has been managing fitness issues, but there is growing optimism that he could return in time for the FA Cup tie. Even if he does not start, his potential presence would be a significant boost to Liverpool’s attacking options. Slot noted that the congested fixture schedule has made recovery windows smaller, which complicates selection decisions. Still, Ekitike remains firmly in contention, and his status will be assessed right up to matchday.
Wataru Endo Nearing Training Return
Another encouraging update came regarding Wataru Endo. The midfielder has been sidelined for nearly two months, and Slot confirmed that Endo is close to returning to training. While a full match return is not imminent, stepping back onto the training pitch marks an important milestone. Slot acknowledged that being out for such an extended period requires patience, and Endo will need time to rebuild match fitness once he resumes full training. His eventual return will add valuable depth and experience to Liverpool’s midfield as the season progresses.
Jayden Danns Ruled Out as Caution Remains Key
Jayden Danns will not be available for the Barnsley match, with Slot confirming the young forward is still not fit enough to train. Danns has been dealing with a stress fracture, an issue that the club is treating with extreme caution.
Slot explained that the injury was linked to overtraining at a young age, and Liverpool are determined not to repeat that situation with other emerging talents. He referenced Rio Ngumoha as an example of careful workload management, with regular rest days built into his schedule. The message from the club is clear. Long term development and player welfare take priority over short term gains, especially when dealing with young prospects.
Federico Chiesa in the Frame for Selection
Federico Chiesa could be one of the players to benefit from the FA Cup fixture. Slot confirmed that the Italian winger is very much in contention to feature against Barnsley. Chiesa himself has noted that he has played more recently than at any previous point under Slot, suggesting his fitness and readiness are improving. Whether he starts or comes off the bench will depend on final fitness checks and the availability of other attackers, including Ekitike. Slot emphasized that Chiesa remains an important option and that squad rotation will be handled carefully while still maintaining competitive strength.
Mohamed Salah Update and Ongoing Commitments
Slot also touched briefly on Mohamed Salah, confirming that the forward played on Saturday and remains involved with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. His ongoing international duties continue to influence Liverpool’s selection planning, particularly in attacking areas. Balancing club and international commitments remains a challenge, but Slot appeared confident in the squad’s ability to adapt.
Major Blow as Conor Bradley Suffers Serious Knee Injury
The most sobering news from the press conference was the confirmed injury update on Conor Bradley. Liverpool have officially announced that the right back has sustained a significant knee injury following the Premier League draw away at Arsenal.
Bradley will undergo surgery in the coming days and then begin a structured rehabilitation program at the AXA Training Centre. At this stage, the club has chosen not to place a timeframe on his return. This is a major setback for both player and team. Bradley has impressed with his energy and consistency, and his absence will be felt in the coming weeks. The decision not to rush a recovery timeline reflects Liverpool’s commitment to ensuring a full and safe return.
Selection Plans and Mindset Heading Into Monday Night
Taken together, Slot’s comments paint a clear picture of Liverpool’s approach heading into the FA Cup third round. The focus is on strength, seriousness, and respect for the competition. While injuries and fitness concerns remain, the Reds still possess enough quality and depth to field a powerful lineup at Anfield. Slot’s intention to involve first team regulars signals how much importance he places on progressing in the FA Cup. The challenge now is to translate that intent into performance on the pitch.
Final Thoughts: A Defining FA Cup Moment Awaits
Monday night against Barnsley represents more than just the start of Liverpool’s FA Cup journey. It is an opportunity to set the tone for the rest of the competition and demonstrate that lessons from previous seasons have been learned. With Arne Slot committing to a strong lineup, key players edging closer to fitness, and the squad fully aware of the risks of complacency, Liverpool enter the tie focused and motivated. The FA Cup matters at Anfield, and on Monday night, Liverpool will look to prove it once again.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com