10 Players Could Miss Liverpool vs Leeds as Arne Slot Handed Dominik Szoboszlai Boost

Liverpool FC prepares to host Leeds United on New Year's Day in the Premier League's 19th round, with manager Arne Slot facing key selection dilemmas amid returns and absences[1][2][6]. The Reds, riding a six-match unbeaten streak including a 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, sit fourth in the table and aim to solidify their top-four position against a 16th-placed Leeds also unbeaten in five games (2 wins, 3 draws for Liverpool; reverse for Leeds)[5].

The headline boost is Dominik Szoboszlai's return from a one-match suspension after accumulating five yellow cards, missing the Wolves victory but now cleared for selection. Liverpool's official site features him prominently, signaling his likely starting role alongside midfielders like Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and possibly Florian Wirtz. A projected lineup includes Alisson in goal; defenders Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; midfield Gravenberch, Jones, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Wirtz; forward Ekitiké[1]. Slot must rethink his midfield and attack with Szoboszlai back, building on their dramatic 3-3 draw at Leeds last month, where Szoboszlai scored after Liverpool led 2-0 before a late equalizer[2][3].

However, up to 10 players could miss out due to injuries and international duty. Confirmed absentees include Joe Gomez (muscle injury since mid-December), Wataru Endo (ankle issue), Stefan Bajcetic, Giovanni Leoni, and Mohamed Salah at the Africa Cup of Nations. Alexander Isak and others remain sidelined[2][6]. Slot noted injuries hinder players like Kerkez Milos' development[3].

Despite 2025's inconsistencies under Slot—strong in league marathons but faltering in cups—Szoboszlai has been a consistent performer. The Premier League's unpredictability looms large: no match is guaranteed, with favorites stumbling against mid-table grit[1][3][4]. Kick-off is at 18:30 GMT, broadcast on Spíler 1[1]. Liverpool eyes a win to kick off 2026 strongly.

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