Liverpool suffer double injury blow ahead of Nottingham Forest

Liverpool Suffer Double Injury Blow Ahead of Nottingham Forest Clash

Liverpool FC has been hit with a significant double injury setback just before their Premier League match against Nottingham Forest, as confirmed by head coach Arne Slot in his pre-match press conference[1][2][4][5]. Right-back Conor Bradley and attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz are both ruled out due to muscle injuries sustained during the recent international break with Northern Ireland and Germany, respectively[1][4][5].

Slot revealed that Bradley's absence could extend through Liverpool's demanding schedule of seven games in 22 days across all competitions, with no expectation of a quick return unless a "miracle" occurs. Wirtz's injury is expected to be shorter-term, though exact timelines remain unclear[1][2][4]. This compounds existing defensive woes, with Jeremie Frimpong sidelined for weeks by a hamstring issue and other long-term absentees like Giovanni Leoni (ACL, out for season) and Conor Bradley potentially facing extended recovery from a prior knee problem noted in later updates[1][3][4].

On a brighter note, goalkeeper Alisson Becker is set to return after training successfully, having missed time with a hamstring injury[1][2][4]. However, Slot highlighted a thin defensive squad, with only five natural defenders available, including Joe Gomez (who missed a session but is expected back), Dominik Szoboszlai, and Curtis Jones potentially filling in at right-back[1][4]. Recent injuries to Wataru Endō (knee) and a suspension for Szoboszlai have further strained resources at the position[3].

Slot emphasized adaptability, stating players may need to feature out of position amid the fixture pile-up. Liverpool's injury list, once dwindling, has ballooned post-internationals, testing squad depth as they navigate a critical run without transfer market options[1][3][4].

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