Liverpool FC Team News vs. Leeds: Szoboszlai Back but 7 Unavailable

Published: January 1, 2026 | Anfield Clash Kicks Off at 09:30 UTC

Liverpool FC host Leeds United at Anfield on New Year's Day in a crucial Premier League encounter, with manager Arne Slot boosted by the return of Dominik Szoboszlai from suspension but hampered by seven unavailable players due to injuries and other issues.

Key Returns and Predicted Lineup

Szoboszlai slots back into midfield, enhancing Liverpool's attacking options. The predicted lineup in a 4-2-3-1 formation is: Alisson Becker (GK); Jeremie Frimpong, Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones; Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Florian Wirtz; Hugo Ekitike.[1]

Hugo Ekitike leads Liverpool's scoring with 8 goals this season, supported by Cody Gakpo (4 goals, 3 assists) and Mohamed Salah (4 goals, 3 assists). Gravenberch has 4 goals, while Mac Allister contributes 2 assists.[1][2] Alisson and Giorgi Mamardashvili have shared 3 clean sheets.[1]

Injury and Availability Concerns

Seven players remain sidelined, including key figures like Trent Alexander-Arnold (doubtful), Diogo Jota, and others not detailed but confirmed out. One unnamed player risks a ban with a booking here, adding tension to selections.[3] Liverpool sit 10-2-6 with 32 points, chasing the top spots.[2]

Leeds United Opposition

Leeds (5-5-8, 20 points) line up in a 3-5-2: Lucas Perri (GK); Ethan Ampadu, Jaka Bijol, Pascal Struijk; Jayden Bogle, Brenden Aaronson, Ilia Gruev, Anton Stach, Gabriel Gudmundsson; Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Lukas Nmecha. Calvert-Lewin tops their charts with 8 goals, Nmecha has 4.[1][2]

Leeds struggle away, winless in six, averaging 1.00 goals scored and 2.10 conceded in their last 10 road games. Historically, they've beaten Liverpool 2-1 in the last Anfield meeting, with two Liverpool wins in the prior three H2H.[1]

Match Context

Liverpool dominate possession in recent outings and are favorites. Pundits like Steve Nicol predict a comfortable win, but Leeds' resilience poses a threat in this Merseyside-Yorkshire derby revival.[1][2]

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