Liverpool Injury List Expands Ahead of Crucial Premier League Run-In | OneFootball

Liverpool Facing Injury Woes as Season Enters Crucial Phase

Liverpool’s season has been marked by exhilarating highs and gut-wrenching lows, but injuries continue to pose a significant challenge for Arne Slot’s men. The Reds’ Carabao Cup final defeat to Newcastle not only denied them silverware but also left them with fresh concerns ahead of a critical run-in.

Their hopes of a domestic cup double were dashed just days after a painful Champions League last-16 exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain on penalties. And with a shock FA Cup fourth-round elimination at the hands of Plymouth, Liverpool’s pursuit of major honours now hinges solely on their Premier League campaign.

With an international break offering respite, attention turns to a growing list of injury concerns as Slot’s squad looks to recover in time for a crucial Merseyside derby against Everton on April 2.

Harvey Elliott’s Status Uncertain After Wembley Knock

Harvey Elliott was one of Liverpool’s brightest sparks in the Carabao Cup final, coming off the bench with just over 15 minutes to play and making an immediate impact. His assist for Federico Chiesa’s stoppage-time goal offered hope of a dramatic turnaround, but the young midfielder ended the match in discomfort after a heavy collision with Newcastle’s Joelinton.

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Despite finishing the game, Elliott required on-field treatment and was seen in clear pain as he left Wembley. Slot did not comment on his condition post-match, but concerns grew when the 20-year-old was later spotted limping away from the stadium.

A clearer picture of his fitness could emerge depending on whether he withdraws from England’s Under-21 squad for their upcoming friendlies against France and Portugal.

Potential return date: Unknown pending assessment, potentially April 2 vs Everton (H).

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Return Remains Unclear

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s absence was felt in the Carabao Cup final, with Jarell Quansah deputising at right-back. The England international sustained an ankle injury in Liverpool’s Champions League defeat to PSG, adding to an already frustrating campaign of fitness setbacks.

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Slot had previously expressed cautious optimism regarding Alexander-Arnold’s return, stating: “So, Trent is indeed not available. He will not be there at the final. But he is still to be assessed for how long it’s going to take but we do expect him back in the end of the season.”

Liverpool will hope for clarity in the coming weeks, but as things stand, the timeframe for his return remains uncertain.

Potential return date: Unknown.

Conor Bradley’s Hamstring Setback

Alexander-Arnold’s injury woes have been compounded by the absence of his understudy, Conor Bradley. The promising full-back has been out since sustaining a hamstring injury in the 2-2 Premier League draw at Aston Villa last month, leaving Liverpool stretched for options on the right side of defence.

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Slot initially suggested Bradley would be sidelined for “a few weeks,” though he refrained from offering a definitive timeline.

The 20-year-old’s omission from Northern Ireland’s squad for their upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Sweden suggests he won’t be back before April at the earliest.

Potential return date: April 2025.

Joe Gomez’s Lengthy Layoff Continues

Liverpool’s right-back crisis deepens further with Joe Gomez’s ongoing struggles. After missing January with a hamstring injury, Gomez suffered a fresh setback just 10 minutes into his FA Cup return against Plymouth.

The England international underwent surgery, and Slot confirmed he faces an extended spell on the sidelines. “A long time” was the phrase used by the Dutchman, though there is faint hope Gomez could return before the season concludes.

Potential return date: May 2025.

Tyler Morton’s Season in Doubt

Young midfielder Tyler Morton is another player facing a race against time to return before the campaign ends. The 21-year-old underwent shoulder surgery in February, and Liverpool are yet to provide a firm update on his recovery timeline.

While not a first-team regular, Morton’s absence removes another option from Slot’s already depleted squad.

Potential return date: May 2025.

Liverpool’s Injury Battle Could Define the Title Run-In

With Liverpool locked in a tight Premier League title race, the mounting injury list could prove decisive in the closing months of the campaign. The loss of Alexander-Arnold, Bradley, and Gomez leaves Slot with limited defensive options, while Elliott’s condition will be closely monitored.

The upcoming international break offers a window for players to recover, but with a Merseyside derby against Everton looming on April 2, Liverpool will be desperate to see some positive fitness updates in the coming weeks.