Liverpool Handed Much-Needed Joe Gomez Injury Boost

Liverpool FC have received a significant injury boost ahead of their Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, with head coach Arne Slot confirming that versatile defender Joe Gomez is ready to start.[1][3][5]

Gomez, who has been sidelined by a hip injury, made substitute appearances in recent victories over Sunderland and Brighton, building match fitness. Slot stated in his pre-match press conference: "Yeah, I think he is [ready to start]."[1][3] This return is particularly welcome for Liverpool's defense, which has been stretched thin. Since Jeremie Frimpong's muscle injury in the Champions League match against Qarabag last month, midfielders like Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai have been deployed at right-back. Gomez, a natural fit for multiple defensive roles including right-back and center-back, provides Slot with a reliable option at the City Ground.[2][4]

However, other updates were less positive. Frimpong will miss the Forest game—"Jeremie will not be involved this weekend yet," Slot said, hoping for his return against West Ham next week.[1][2][4] Midfielder Wataru Endo faces a lengthy absence after a serious injury at Sunderland, with Slot noting: "Wata will be out for a long time... we don't know exactly how long."[1][2][4][6] Long-term concerns also linger for Alexander Isak, though details remain sparse.[2][4]

The Gomez boost strengthens Liverpool's squad depth amid a demanding schedule. Despite competition in central defense, his versatility could see him start at right-back, easing the burden on makeshift solutions. Fans and analysts view this as a timely lift, potentially stabilizing the backline for the Premier League run-in.[3][5] Slot's pragmatic approach underscores cautious optimism, balancing immediate returns with long-term recoveries.

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