Arne Slot reveals when Liverpool rotation is likely to happen next – “Not worried yet”

Liverpool’s demanding schedule is set to become even more intense with the addition of a fourth competition, and Arne Slot has hinted at when rotation may be needed.

Slot has been encouraged to adjust his starting lineup when possible, especially considering Liverpool’s past struggles with player fatigue late in the season. Excluding changes made before or after League Cup matches, Slot typically makes 2.3 changes to his lineup per game. However, this figure rises to 3.8 when cup games are included.

The Dutch manager acknowledged that he didn’t “rotate a lot” during his time at Feyenoord but has quickly realized that rotation is a key concern, particularly during the busy festive period.

Liverpool will wrap up their 2024 schedule on Sunday, followed by eight matches in four competitions throughout January. Slot has already suggested when we might see lineup changes.

Before the Boxing Day victory, Slot discussed potential fitness issues with Prime Video, stating: “Not worried yet, but it’s also the first time for me that we play during Christmas.”

He continued, “It’s not a different month December than it was November or October because there were international breaks, but the players played the same amount of games. It just keeps on adding up. Normally, after six or seven months you feel more tiredness than after three or four.”

Slot acknowledged the possibility of resting players in certain games, saying, “But if you look at some games, I could have rested a few times – in league games I could have rested a few – but there’s a possibility maybe in the FA Cup as well.”

For now, he added, “it’s tough for the players but they manage to cope with the schedule really well.”

Liverpool will face League Two side Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup third round on January 11, with three matches scheduled beforehand. This presents an ideal opportunity for rotation, with players like Jarell Quansah, Wataru Endo, Tyler Morton, Harvey Elliott, and Federico Chiesa likely to feature.

Slot will also be hoping Ibrahima Konate and Conor Bradley are fit to return, as this match could offer a gentler reintroduction to action.

This season, Slot has made an average of 8.3 changes for League Cup fixtures, and it wouldn’t be surprising if a similar approach is taken in the FA Cup, depending on how long Liverpool remains in the competition.

Currently, Liverpool’s injury list is limited to Konate and Bradley, but rotation will be crucial to preventing further injuries in the early part of 2025.