Arne Slot Confirms Fresh Liverpool Injury Blow Ahead of Wolves Clash | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Injury Concerns Grow as Cody Gakpo Becomes a Doubt for Wolves Clash

Liverpool are facing a fresh injury concern ahead of their Premier League clash against Wolves, with Cody Gakpo emerging as the latest potential absentee. Arne Slot, who will remain on the touchline despite his recent dismissal, confirmed Gakpo’s status as ‘a doubt’ after picking up a knock in the Merseyside derby.

The Reds will host relegation-threatened Wolves on Sunday at Anfield in a 2pm kickoff, looking to bounce back from two frustrating results. However, their task may become trickier with several key players unavailable.

Gakpo’s Availability in Question

The standout concern revolves around Cody Gakpo, who was withdrawn in the 69th minute during the derby clash against Everton due to injury. The Dutch forward has been one of Liverpool’s most consistent performers this season, contributing 16 goals and five assists in 36 appearances across all competitions.

Speaking to the media on Friday, Arne Slot addressed Gakpo’s situation:

“Cody is a bit of a doubt as well. Let’s wait how he is today. I had to take him off because of an injury. He got a knock, so let’s see how he is today.”

If Gakpo fails to recover in time, it could open the door for Darwin Nunez or Diogo Jota to step into the starting XI. This change might also see Luis Diaz shift back to his preferred position on the left wing, after struggling to find consistent output when deployed as a central striker.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot Navigates Through Injury Challenges

Alongside Gakpo, Liverpool are already without Curtis Jones, who is serving a suspension following his red card. Additionally, Joe Gomez remains sidelined with a hamstring issue, while Tyler Morton is unavailable due to a shoulder injury.

Slot provided an update on other potential returns, including that of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who featured as a substitute in midweek:

“Trent, of course, [is] able to play. It was the intention to play around half an hour [against Everton], I think he played somewhere around half an hour. So he will be training with us again.”

Alexander-Arnold’s return to the starting XI could provide a timely boost for Liverpool, as the England international’s creativity has been sorely missed during his absence.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s Attacking Options Remain Strong

Despite Gakpo’s potential absence, Liverpool still possess significant firepower in attack. With Mohamed Salah leading the line and the possibility of Jota or Nunez stepping in, Slot has several options to break down Wolves’ defence.

Wolves, currently battling to avoid relegation, have struggled to contain attacking sides this season, which could present an opportunity for Liverpool’s frontline to regain form. Fans will be hoping Gakpo recovers in time, given his reliability and knack for finding the net in crucial moments.

The coming days will be crucial as Slot and his medical team assess Gakpo’s fitness. With key matches on the horizon, Liverpool will be eager to avoid any further setbacks.