Arne Slot Provides Update on Joe Gomez and Dominik Szoboszlai Injuries

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has delivered concerning updates on the injury statuses of defender Joe Gomez and midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai, amid a growing injury crisis plaguing the Reds during a packed festive schedule.

Slot confirmed that Joe Gomez, who has been sidelined with a recurring hamstring issue, will remain out for several weeks. The versatile defender's absence exacerbates Liverpool's defensive woes, with Slot noting the challenge of managing without such a key utility player. "Joe's recovery is taking longer than anticipated," Slot stated in his pre-match press conference. "We're monitoring him closely, but he won't be available for the upcoming games."

Similarly, Dominik Szoboszlai's hamstring strain has ruled out the Hungarian star for an extended period. Slot revealed that initial assessments underestimated the severity, projecting a return after the new year. "Dominik pushed hard in training, but we can't risk further damage," the Dutch coach explained. Szoboszlai's creativity in midfield has been sorely missed, forcing tactical adjustments.

The updates come as Liverpool grapples with multiple absences, including Alisson Becker (goalkeeper), Conor Bradley (back), Jeremie Frimpong (defensive), Cody Gakpo (muscle injury), and long-term absentee Giovanni Leoni. Federico Chiesa also sat out a recent midweek clash against Inter due to illness.

Compounding midfield concerns, Slot disclosed another blow: Wataru Endo is sidelined with an ankle injury expected to keep him out for "weeks." The 32-year-old Japanese international, limited to just 43 Premier League minutes this season as a substitute, leaves Slot short on bench options. "With Cody it's a muscle injury and Wataru is an ankle injury—both for weeks," Slot confirmed.

Liverpool's fixture list intensifies through the holidays, with Slot adapting by deploying a diamond formation featuring four midfielders, including Curtis Jones. However, Endo's absence limits rotation, potentially opening doors for 18-year-old prospect Trey Nyoni. Tyler Morton, once a homegrown option, was sold to Lyon last summer.

Slot emphasized resilience: "Injuries test our squad depth, but we're prepared to fight." Fans brace for a testing run as Liverpool aims to maintain their title challenge despite the mounting setbacks.

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