Arne Slot Confirms Two Liverpool Stars are Sidelined for ‘Upcoming Weeks’ | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Trip to Fulham Looms as Slot Deals with Injury Woes

Liverpool’s narrow 1-0 win over Everton has barely been digested, and yet the focus has already shifted to their next Premier League outing — a tricky trip to Fulham. As Arne Slot plots another vital three points in the Reds’ pursuit of the title, he’s been quick to clarify his selection headaches ahead of the weekend.

Despite sitting comfortably atop the table, 12 points clear of Arsenal, Liverpool’s depth is set to be tested again — particularly at the back — as injuries continue to disrupt their rhythm.

Injury Absences Pile Up for Slot

Slot confirmed during his pre-match press conference that two key defenders — Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez — will not be travelling to west London. Both are still recovering and won’t feature “in the upcoming weeks,” leaving Liverpool without their first-choice right-back and one of their most versatile squad players.

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Slot’s decision-making will now hinge on Conor Bradley’s fitness. The Northern Ireland full-back has been out but is edging closer to a return, with Slot teasing a potential comeback this weekend:“Conor, we’ll have to wait and see if he’s ready to be with the squad for Sunday.”

The manager has options, albeit makeshift ones. Curtis Jones filled in impressively at right-back against Everton, and Jarell Quansah has also deputised in the role before. Slot kept his cards close to his chest:“Curtis is an option because he did well, but I think Jarell did well a few times in the position also, so let’s wait and see what decision we make on Sunday.”

Alisson’s Return Still Uncertain

Another area of concern for Liverpool lies between the sticks. Alisson Becker remains sidelined after sustaining a concussion on international duty with Brazil. The Brazilian has yet to pass all the required fitness protocols, and while no long-term issues are expected, his involvement against Fulham is in doubt.

Slot offered a simple explanation on the situation:“With Ali it’s simple, it’s a concussion and you have to tick all the boxes. The moment he does he will be in goal, the moment he doesn’t he won’t be.”

Photo: IMAGO

This uncertainty continues to hang over Liverpool’s preparations and could hand another start to Caoimhín Kelleher, who has deputised ably in recent weeks.

Fulham Challenge Demands Composure and Precision

With Fulham already on the receiving end of a 2-1 defeat to Arsenal this week, Marco Silva’s men will be eager to put things right at Craven Cottage. Liverpool, meanwhile, will be aware of the need to stay sharp — particularly with PMGOL admitting to officiating errors in their win over Everton. While that drama will spark conversations, Slot’s squad must focus on getting the job done.

The league table tells a compelling story: 30 games played, 22 wins, and just one loss — a dominant run that has Liverpool on 73 points. But if there’s one lesson the Premier League never stops teaching, it’s that no result is guaranteed — especially away from home with a patched-up defence.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s Tactical Flexibility Faces Another Test

Slot’s short tenure has already showcased his willingness to adapt, even with limited resources. Against Everton, we saw a shape-shifting Liverpool, where Jones took to an unfamiliar role and still imposed himself. That kind of tactical agility could once again be required on Sunday.

What’s clear is that the road to the title won’t be smooth. But if Slot continues to pull the right strings, Liverpool’s grip on the Premier League summit will only tighten — Fulham or not.