As Liverpool FC travel to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland AFC tonight, head coach Arne Slot is facing what many are calling a “right-back emergency.” Following a narrow 2-1 defeat to Manchester City, the Reds are desperate for three points to stay in the Champions League race, but they must do so without several foundational players.
The most significant blow comes in the form of a suspension. Dominik Szoboszlai, who scored a stunning free-kick against City, will miss tonight’s clash. The Hungarian international received a straight red card for a professional foul on Erling Haaland in the final moments of Sunday’s game. Under Premier League rules, his one-match ban means he will likely return for the fixture against West Ham on February 14.
The Right-Back Conundrum
Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference that the squad is effectively depleted at right-back. Jeremie Frimpong remains sidelined with a persistent back injury, while young star Conor Bradley is a long-term absentee following knee surgery in January. To add to the woes, Giovanni Leoni is also out for the remainder of the season with an ACL tear.
The only glimmer of hope for the Reds is the potential return of Joe Gomez. After colliding with Alisson Becker in late January, Gomez has been battling a knee and hip issue. While Slot labeled him a “major doubt,” there is a slim chance he could feature on the bench if he passed a late fitness test this morning. If Gomez cannot start, midfielders like Curtis Jones or Wataru Endo may be forced to deputize in the backline.
Long-term Absentees
In the attacking department, Liverpool continues to miss Alexander Isak. The prolific striker is recovering from a fractured fibula and ankle injury sustained in December. Reports from the medical team suggest he won’t be back on the pitch until April at the earliest. Additionally, midfield prodigy Stefan Bajcetic remains out following a series of setbacks in his rehabilitation.
Sunderland Team News: Black Cats Without Captain Xhaka
While Liverpool’s list is extensive, Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris also has key absences to manage. The Black Cats, who boast an impressive unbeaten home record this season, will be without their captain and midfield general, Granit Xhaka. The veteran midfielder is nursing an ankle injury and is expected to miss at least another week of action.
Joining Xhaka on the sidelines is Bertrand Traore. The former Aston Villa man, who has been a thorn in Liverpool’s side in the past, is recovering from a knee injury sustained during his time at the Africa Cup of Nations.
However, it’s not all bad news for the hosts. New signing Nilson Angulo is expected to be in the matchday squad, and Noah Sadiki has been cleared to play after a minor scare during their recent 3-0 loss to Arsenal.
Match Details & Expected Lineups
- Venue: Stadium of Light, Sunderland
- Kick-off: 8:15 PM GMT
- Referee: To be confirmed
Predicted Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.
Predicted Sunderland XI (4-3-3): Roefs; Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Reinildo; Diarra, Le Fee, Sadiki; Talbi, Brobbey, Angulo.
Tonight’s match is a massive test for Arne Slot. With his job reportedly under scrutiny and a squad ravaged by injuries, leaving the Stadium of Light with all three points would be a statement of intent for the remainder of the Premier League season.
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