In a timely boost for Liverpool amid a mounting injury crisis, manager Arne Slot has confirmed that defender Joe Gomez is set to return to training today, potentially paving the way for his involvement in tomorrow’s crucial clash against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
The Reds are reeling from a frustrating defeat to Manchester City over the weekend, where midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai was sent off, adding to their woes in the race for a top-four finish. Currently trailing behind Manchester United and Chelsea, Liverpool could slip even further adrift depending on results elsewhere before their midweek fixture. However, Slot’s latest update on Gomez offers a glimmer of hope, especially with the team facing a severe shortage at right-back.
Gomez, who has been sidelined since sustaining a knock in the game against Bournemouth, has yet to rejoin full team training. But speaking at his pre-match press conference today, Slot expressed optimism about the versatile defender’s progress.
“Joe has not trained with us yet, I’m expecting him to train with us today for the first time,” Slot revealed. “If Joe’s not ready to start, then we’re missing four players that have played in that position, but Curtis [Jones] and Wata [Endo] also played in that position this year, so we’ve had six different right fullbacks this season.”
The absence of key right-backs Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong due to injuries has forced Slot to improvise in recent matches, with Szoboszlai even filling in at the position before his red card against City. The Hungarian’s suspension for the Sunderland game exacerbates the issue, leaving Liverpool without one of their most dynamic midfielders who had been providing defensive cover.
Reflecting on Szoboszlai’s dismissal, Slot maintained a pragmatic stance: “My feelings haven’t changed. The moment I saw he got a red card, I was disappointed not to have him against Sunderland, but on the other hand, I think the referee did what he had to do, and that’s not what we like if we love football. But it’s the rule book, and referees are there to follow the rule book.”
Liverpool’s defensive depth has been tested repeatedly this season, with Slot highlighting the adaptability of his squad. The potential return of Gomez, a long-time servant at Anfield capable of playing across the backline, could be pivotal. His experience and composure might just be the stabilizing force the Reds need to turn the tide against a resilient Sunderland side.
As Liverpool prepare to travel north, the focus will be on bouncing back and closing the gap on their rivals. With Gomez potentially back in the mix, Slot’s side might finally have the reinforcements needed to steady the ship. Fans will be eagerly awaiting further updates from today’s training session, hoping for confirmation that the England international is match-ready.
Stay tuned for more developments as the Reds aim to reignite their top-four push.