Liverpool Dealt Late Blow for Forest Clash

Liverpool FC suffered a significant last-minute setback ahead of their Premier League match against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Summer signing Florian Wirtz, the in-form German international from Bayer Leverkusen, was initially named in manager Arne Slot's starting lineup but was forced to withdraw after sustaining an injury during the pre-match warm-up.[1][2][3][4]

Wirtz arrived with the team appearing fully fit and ready to feature in midfield, but he was seen conversing with coaching staff on the pitch about an issue, leading to his abrupt exclusion from the XI. Liverpool's matchday blog confirmed the change, stating there had been a late adjustment with Curtis Jones stepping in to replace him.[3][6]

Jones, who had starred in the previous week's win over Brighton, was somewhat unfortunate to be drafted back in after recently filling in at right-back. With Jones moving to midfield, Dominik Szoboszlai shifted to right-back to accommodate the reshuffle.[1]

The updated Liverpool starting lineup included: Alisson in goal; defenders Van den Berg, Konaté, Alexander-Arnold; midfielders Jones, Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; and forwards Salah, Nunez (or similar, as per reports), Ekitike. Substitutes featured players like Gomez, Robertson, and others.[3]

This injury blow comes as a fresh concern for Liverpool, disrupting Slot's plans against a tricky Forest side. Wirtz's absence is particularly felt given his recent form, leaving fans and the team hoping for a quick recovery. More updates are expected post-match.[4][5]

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