Liverpool's recent victory over Burnley propelled them back to the top of the Premier League table, but it was achieved amidst a significant injury and illness crisis.
Despite missing 11 first-team players, the Reds managed a commendable 3-1 win in front of Anfield's largest-ever Premier League crowd. The absence of key players, coupled with Trent Alexander-Arnold's unfortunate injury at halftime, underscored the challenges Liverpool faced in maintaining their title charge.
Jurgen Klopp is hopeful that the upcoming free week will afford some respite for the squad, allowing those affected by the recent illness bug to recuperate. Moreover, there's anticipation surrounding the potential return of star striker Mohamed Salah, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained during international duty. Klopp's cautious optimism is evident in his remarks, suggesting that Salah could rejoin training soon, potentially making a comeback against Brentford.
The imminent return of Ibrahima Konate from suspension and Conor Bradley from compassionate leave provides a glimmer of hope amid the injury woes. However, Klopp still faces the prospect of numerous absentees for the upcoming clash against Brentford.
Notably, the uncertainties surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold's knee injury, along with the ongoing absence of players like Joe Gomez, Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, Thiago Alcantara, Stefan Bajcetic, Joel Matip, and Ben Doak, present considerable challenges for the team.
Each sidelined player brings a unique set of skills and contributions to the squad, and their absence underscores the depth of Liverpool's current injury crisis. With varying expected return dates for these players, Klopp and his coaching staff must carefully navigate the squad's fitness and rotation to maintain their title challenge amidst these challenging circumstances.
Liverpool injury list and expected return dates
- Mohamed Salah: Expected return date: Brentford (A), February 17
- Trent Alexander-Arnold: Expected return date: Unknown
- Alisson Becker: Expected return date: Brentford (A), February 17
- Joe Gomez: Expected return date: Brentford (A), February 17
- Ryan Gravenberch: Expected return date: Brentford (A), February 17
- Dominik Szoboszlai: Expected return date: Unknown
- Thiago Alcantara: Expected return date: Unknown
- Stefan Bajcetic: Expected return date: Unknown
- Joel Matip: Expected return date: Unknown
- Ben Doak: Expected return date: Unknown
Source: Liverpool Echo / Join us on Telegram!/ Follow us on Twitter!