Liverpool attacker ruled out of Barnsley game

A Liverpool striker has been ruled out of the upcoming FA Cup tie against Barnsley after suffering a fresh injury setback in his recovery. The forward had been scheduled to take part in parts of team training last week as he neared a return to action, but a new issue has delayed his comeback until at least February.[3]

The injury blow comes at a time when Liverpool are already managing several fitness concerns in attack, increasing the pressure on Arne Slot’s options for the Barnsley clash. The sidelined striker had been viewed as a valuable addition to the squad’s depth for the second half of the season, particularly with the club competing on multiple fronts.[3]

Speaking ahead of the game, Slot confirmed that the player would not be available and indicated that the medical team would take a cautious approach to his rehabilitation to avoid further setbacks. The Dutchman stressed that there is no intention to rush the forward back, with the priority being a full recovery rather than short‑term gains.[3]

The setback effectively rules the attacker out of a busy run of fixtures over the coming weeks, including key domestic matches and potential cup ties. His absence is expected to open the door for other forwards in the squad to stake their claim, while also potentially influencing Liverpool’s thinking in the winter transfer window as they assess their attacking resources.[3]

Although no exact return date has been given beyond the indication that he will be unavailable until at least February, there is hope within the club that, once recovered, the striker can still play a significant role later in the campaign. For now, however, Liverpool will have to navigate the Barnsley encounter and the immediate schedule without him.[3]