5 Liverpool Players Could Miss Burnley Clash

Liverpool FC faces a crucial Premier League match against Burnley on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Anfield, but manager Arne Slot could be without five key players due to injuries and fatigue following a packed schedule[3][5].

The Reds, currently sitting 4th in the table with 35 points from 21 games, recently progressed in the FA Cup with a 4-1 win over Barnsley on January 12, where Dominik Szoboszlai scored a stunner, Jeremie Frimpong doubled the lead, and Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike sealed victory despite some scares[1][7]. This fixture congestion, including a looming Brighton FA Cup tie, heightens concerns over player availability[1].

Players at Risk

• Virgil van Dijk (Captain, Defender): Hamstring strain from international duty; doubtful after missing training[6].
• Mohamed Salah (Forward): Ankle knock in Barnsley win; managed minutes but scans pending[1][6].
• Dominik Szoboszlai (Midfielder): Error-prone display vs Barnsley, plus fatigue; rotation likely post-FA Cup heroics[1].
• Trent Alexander-Arnold (Right-back): Recurring knee issue flared up; Slot hinted at rest to avoid long-term risk[6].
• Cody Gakpo (Forward): Minor knock and heavy minutes (19 apps, 5 goals); could be benched for Ekitike[6].

Burnley, languishing 19th with 13 points, pose a relegation threat despite Liverpool's dominant H2H record (13 wins, 2 losses)[3][4][6]. Slot may rotate with eyes on Champions League qualification, easing fixture pile-up if top-eight finish secured[1]. Tickets are in high demand via ballot, with sales from January 12[5]. Fans brace for a tense Anfield encounter as Liverpool aim to maintain top-four push.

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