Image Credit: Image by Andrew Boyers/Action Images/ReutersLiverpool's Jota and Elliott sidelined with injuries
Liverpool faces injury challenges as Diogo Jota and Harvey Elliott are sidelined, impacting key fixtures. Manager Arne Slot aims to navigate squad depth issues while emphasizing the importance of player fitness and unity.
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota is anticipated to be out of action until after the upcoming international break due to an injury he sustained during the Reds' win over Chelsea earlier this month. Jota had been performing exceptionally well, scoring four goals this season, so his absence will be noticeable as Liverpool gears up for their Carabao Cup match against Brighton on Wednesday.
Manager Arne Slot confirmed that Jota will not only miss the cup match but also important league games, including a Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund and a Premier League match against Aston Villa. Additionally, midfielder Harvey Elliott, who has only played in one game this season due to a fractured foot, is also out until late November. On a more positive note, Conor Bradley is expected to return for the match against Brighton.
Slot discussed the ongoing challenges faced by Italian forward Federico Chiesa, who has been dealing with injury issues. "He has ups and downs, so sometimes he joins us for training for a few days, then he's out again due to injury," Slot explained. He stressed the importance of not setting a specific timeline for Chiesa's recovery, stating, "We need to ensure he reaches his best possible condition without any pressure."
The Liverpool manager dismissed the speculation about Chiesa possibly going on loan back to Italy in January, emphasizing that the primary focus is on his fitness. "It's been challenging so far, but I have full confidence that we will find the right approach to develop him without overburdening him," Slot added.
Reflecting on squad depth, Slot mentioned he would not repeat the extensive changes made in the earlier League Cup match against West Ham, which concluded with a 5-1 win. 'We've got some injuries, so we may not have enough players to change them all,' he stated, suggesting the necessity for thoughtful consideration of the lineup.
One player likely to feature is the Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo, whose only start this season was against West Ham. Slot commended Endo's attitude and professionalism, noting his readiness to contribute whenever needed, even during short appearances. 'I really liked him against West Ham. He deserves to play tomorrow because he consistently supports the team,' Slot concluded, stressing the importance of squad unity as they deal with injury challenges.
