Liverpool boss Arne Slot has been handed a major headache ahead of Monday night’s Premier League clash with Newcastle United.
Right-back Jeremie Frimpong, who limped off during last week’s thrilling 4-2 win over Bournemouth, has now been ruled out until after the upcoming international break. Tests confirmed a hamstring problem, and although Liverpool’s medical staff acted quickly to substitute him before the issue worsened, the Dutchman is still set for weeks on the sidelines.
Slot admitted the decision to take Frimpong off wasn’t about performance but purely precautionary:
> “The medical team were right. If we hadn’t taken him off, he could have been out even longer,” the Reds manager explained.
More Problems at Right-Back ⚠️
Unfortunately for Liverpool, Frimpong isn’t the only concern.
Conor Bradley has just returned to light training after missing pre-season.
Joe Gomez, who made his first league appearance since December with a short cameo against Bournemouth, is still regaining full fitness.
That leaves Slot considering emergency options, including Wataru Endo, Curtis Jones, or even Dominik Szoboszlai filling in on the right side of defence.
> “You can’t prepare for two injuries in the same position,” Slot said with a wry smile. “Luckily, we do have versatile players who can step in.”
The Big Question ❓
With Newcastle away looming large, Liverpool may have to get creative. Will Slot risk Gomez from the start, turn to an out-of-position midfielder, or gamble on Bradley’s sharpness?
One thing is certain: Monday night’s showdown just got a whole lot trickier for the Reds.
Leave a Reply