Liverpool prepare for a crucial Merseyside derby against Everton, with injuries playing a significant role in the buildup to the final league meeting between the two rivals at Goodison Park. With Everton set to move to their new stadium on the city’s waterfront, emotions will be high, but for Arne Slot and his squad, the focus remains solely on securing three points. A victory would push Liverpool nine points clear at the top of the Premier League, a vital step in their title challenge. It would also help erase the bitter memory of the unexpected 1-0 FA Cup exit at the hands of Championship strugglers Plymouth Argyle.
The disappointing defeat came with context, as Slot made ten changes to the side that had convincingly defeated Tottenham 4-0 in the Carabao Cup just days earlier. The rotation saw Joe Gomez handed the captain’s armband, but his early departure due to injury forced Wataru Endo into an unfamiliar center-back role, disrupting the midfield balance. The loss of experience in the middle of the pitch played into Plymouth’s hands, ultimately costing Liverpool their place in the competition.
Following the game, Slot provided an update on Gomez, who was making his return after a hamstring injury sustained against West Ham in December. He acknowledged that Gomez felt discomfort and hesitated to sprint back at full pace, fearing further damage. The full extent of the issue remains unclear, but initial indications suggest it is not a severe tear. Slot also revealed that Curtis Jones, named on the bench, had informed him before the match that he was not fully recovered from training and did not feel fit to play. This unexpected setback meant Liverpool had to rely on more inexperienced players than initially planned, which contributed to their struggles.
Further updates on Gomez and Jones are expected when Slot holds his pre-match press conference at the AXA Training Centre. Another key topic of discussion will be the fitness of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has been sidelined for the last two matches due to a thigh injury suffered during the crucial 2-0 victory over Bournemouth. The Liverpool vice-captain’s absence has been a major blow, and while Slot previously stated the injury would not sideline him for months or even weeks, it remains uncertain whether he will be available for the derby. With a packed fixture schedule ahead, the club will need to balance short-term ambitions with long-term fitness considerations.
Tyler Morton is another player who will be missing from the squad, with Slot confirming that the young midfielder is set to be out for at least a month due to a shoulder injury. Morton, who would have been a likely starter against Plymouth, now faces a frustrating spell on the sidelines at a time when Liverpool could have used additional depth in midfield.
As Liverpool approach the derby, Slot will have to make key decisions regarding squad rotation and fitness management. The absence of several senior players could force him into a reshuffled lineup, with younger squad members again expected to step up. Despite recent setbacks, Liverpool remain in a strong position at the top of the table, and a victory over their city rivals would provide a significant boost in their quest for silverware.
