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Liverpool head to London this weekend looking to put a stop to a worrying run of three straight defeats in all competitions. The visit to West Ham United comes at a moment when the reigning Premier League champions need a lift, and the good news is that a few important names are close to returning. Alisson Becker, Florian Wirtz and Joe Gomez could all play a part, giving Arne Slot’s squad a much needed boost after a tough spell.
Both teams come into the match with different motivations. West Ham want to build on their recent Premier League draw with Bournemouth, while Liverpool want to hit reset after their Champions League setback against PSV. With strong squads on both sides and pressure rising, Sunday’s clash promises intensity, questions about team selection and plenty of storylines.
Liverpool’s Injury Boost Arrives at the Right Time
The biggest headline from Arne Slot’s Thursday press conference was the expected return of Alisson Becker. The goalkeeper missed the PSV match due to illness, and Liverpool felt his absence on a difficult night at Anfield. Slot confirmed that Alisson trained again with the group and should be ready for the trip to West Ham.
Slot put it simply:
“Ali trained again with the team today, so we hope and expect him to be available at the weekend.”
Having Alisson back instantly increases stability in Liverpool’s defensive shape. This is a squad that plays with confidence when their number one is behind them. With the team conceding goals too easily in recent weeks, his return is a major lift.
Florian Wirtz is also close to returning. The midfielder has missed the last two matches with a muscle problem but is nearing the end of his rehab phase. Slot said Wirtz will complete the final stage of his recovery on Friday, and if all goes well he will train with the squad on Saturday. That gives the young playmaker a real chance of making the matchday squad.
Slot said,
“Florian will have his final day of rehab tomorrow. If that all goes well, he could train with the team on Saturday.”
Hugo Ekitike remains a doubt after coming off in the second half against PSV with a back issue. The staff do not believe it is serious, but the timing is tight. With games coming quickly, Slot is not ready to confirm his involvement.
Joe Gomez Close to a Return
Another encouraging piece of news for Liverpool is the progress of defender Joe Gomez. Slot revealed that Gomez was already close to being involved against PSV, but the circumstances of the match forced more attacking substitutions.
Gomez has been working his way back to full fitness and is now in a position to play minutes or even start. Slot confirmed that it is a realistic possibility: “For him to start a game is also definitely a possibility.”
With Liverpool struggling at the back and looking less secure than usual, Gomez’s presence brings versatility and experience. His ability to play both centrally and at fullback allows Slot to adjust the defensive structure depending on West Ham’s approach.
Will Slot Rotate After Three Straight Defeats?
One of the most interesting questions heading into Sunday surrounds Arne Slot’s lineup choices. Liverpool have lost three matches in a row, two in the Premier League and one in Europe. Naturally, there is talk of whether changes are needed.
Slot kept his cards close to his chest. When asked if he might rotate, he simply said that everything is being considered. He added that players train with the staff every day and have chances to prove themselves. However, he did not reveal what his final decision will be.
This leaves room for speculation. With Alisson back, that change is certain. Gomez may also come in. Wirtz, if fit enough, might appear from the bench. The real question is whether Slot makes any bold moves in midfield or attack to inject energy and confidence.
Liverpool fans will watch closely for signs of adjustment, especially after the team looked flat in the 4 to 1 defeat to PSV. Changes could help reset momentum and sharpen focus ahead of a busy winter schedule.
West Ham’s Own Injury Updates
Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad also has some positive news. Konstantinos Mavropanos and Crysencio Summerville are both close to returning. The pair have been out with injuries but are improving steadily. Nuno said the staff will assess both players again on Saturday.
Lucas Paqueta is available after serving a one match suspension. His return adds creativity and control to West Ham’s midfield. Paqueta’s influence could be key in transitions, especially against a Liverpool side that likes to press high but has looked vulnerable in recent weeks.
West Ham will still be without a couple of players. Oliver Scarles is recovering from surgery on a fractured collarbone and remains out. Lukasz Fabianski is a longer term absentee.
Nuno praised Liverpool’s depth, saying that no matter who Slot picks, the visitors will bring quality and intensity. He acknowledged that predicting the starting eleven is difficult but made clear that his squad is preparing for a tough opponent.
Form Check: How Both Teams Arrive
West Ham’s last outing was a 2 to 2 draw against Bournemouth on November 22. Their lineup included Areola, Kilman, Julio, Todibo, Diouf, Fernandes, Wan Bissaka, Potts, Wilson, Guilherme and Bowen. The Hammers showed resilience and had moments of control but will need to be more clinical at home against a Liverpool side desperate to rebound.
Liverpool’s last match was the heavy 4 to 1 defeat to PSV on November 26. The team featured Mamardashvili, Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Salah, Gakpo and Ekitike. The Reds equalised early through Szoboszlai but fell apart after halftime.
Despite the recent poor form, Liverpool remain one of the most dangerous attacking teams in the league. The question is whether they can find confidence again and cut out the defensive lapses that have cost them in Europe and the Premier League.
What to Expect on Sunday
This match carries weight for both teams. West Ham want stability after inconsistent results. Liverpool want to stop the slide and avoid more pressure. The return of Alisson and possibly Wirtz changes Liverpool’s outlook, while Paqueta’s availability gives West Ham more midfield balance. Expect Liverpool to start with urgency. Slot will want his players to dominate from the opening minutes and set the tone. West Ham will likely look to absorb pressure and strike on the counter, especially with Bowen and Guilherme in wide areas.
If Liverpool regain their composure at the back and stay sharp in attack, they can break their losing streak. If not, West Ham have enough quality to take advantage. Either way, the stage is set for a competitive match. The return of key players on both sides raises the stakes even higher. Sunday’s clash could play a major role in shaping Liverpool’s confidence heading into the next phase of the season.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com