Team News: Liverpool Face Wolves with Gakpo Injury Concern | OneFootball

Liverpool Wait on Gakpo Fitness as Slot Prepares for Wolves Test

Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces an anxious wait over Cody Gakpo’s fitness ahead of their Premier League clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield. With several key players unavailable, Slot remains hopeful that his side can bounce back and finish the season strongly.

Gakpo Doubtful as Alexander-Arnold Nears Milestone

Cody Gakpo’s availability remains uncertain after the forward suffered an injury during Liverpool’s midweek Merseyside derby against Everton. Providing an update, Slot shared: “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.”

Photo: IMAGO

In more positive news, Trent Alexander-Arnold returned to action at Goodison Park, marking his first appearance after missing two matches. Slot explained the club’s careful approach to his recovery: “We saw Trent [Alexander-Arnold], of course, being able to play. It was the intention to play around half an hour, I think he played somewhere around half an hour, so he will be training with us again.”

A start for Alexander-Arnold on Sunday would mark his 250th Premier League appearance for Liverpool, a milestone achievement for the academy graduate.

Jones Suspended as Gomez and Morton Remain Out

Liverpool will be without Curtis Jones, who is suspended following his second yellow card after the final whistle against Everton. Meanwhile, Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton remain sidelined through injury, reducing Slot’s options for the Wolves encounter.

Despite these setbacks, Liverpool will be confident of a strong performance at Anfield, where the fans will be hoping for a return to winning ways.

Pereira’s Wolves Aim for Positive Display

Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Vitor Pereira, appointed in December, has no new injury concerns for the trip to Anfield. However, he will be without long-term absentees Sasa Kalajdzic, Enso Gonzalez, and Yerson Mosquera. Additionally, Hwang Hee-chan remains a doubt after going off at half-time during Wolves’ recent FA Cup win over Blackburn Rovers.

Photo: IMAGO

Pereira remains optimistic about his side’s chances, stating: “The main thing is to build something, to create something. And we are creating something in Wolverhampton.” He added: “I’m not thinking about to go there and to defend [for] 90 minutes to take a point from the game. I’m thinking to prepare the team to go there and to play in our way.”

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The uncertainty over Cody Gakpo’s availability is a concern, especially given his recent form. Fans will be pleased to see Trent Alexander-Arnold returning, as his creativity and leadership are vital for breaking down stubborn defences.

The suspension of Curtis Jones is frustrating, particularly as he was beginning to find rhythm in midfield under Arne Slot. However, this is a chance for others to step up, with Harvey Elliott potentially earning a starting role.

Vitor Pereira’s comments suggest Wolves will not simply park the bus, which could create opportunities for Liverpool’s forwards to exploit. Nevertheless, Liverpool must remain cautious, as Wolves have previously caused upsets with their quick transitions and physicality.

The Anfield crowd will play a significant role in lifting the team, and there is an expectation for Liverpool to respond strongly following the disappointment of the Merseyside derby. If Slot’s men can rediscover their cutting edge, three points should be within reach.