Tag: Curtis Jones

Liverpool injury update ahead of Premier League showdown with struggling Ipswich Town

Liverpool are back in action today as Ipswich Town visit Anfield, with the Reds aiming to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League on a busy matchday, as both Arsenal and Nottingham Forest play simultaneously.

Arne Slot has several options for the game, which falls between two crucial Champions League fixtures. After defeating Lille 2-1 at Anfield on Tuesday, Liverpool now need only a point at PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday to secure first place in their group.

However, the Reds didn’t come through their match against Lille completely unscathed, as a new injury has emerged. Curtis Jones will now be sidelined after sustaining an injury in the first half of the game.

Jones was hurt just before half-time, and while he managed to play through it for the remainder of the half, he did not return for the second half. Slot confirmed on Friday that Jones wouldn’t be available for the Ipswich match and that his availability for the PSV clash or next weekend’s trip to Bournemouth is uncertain.

“He went off during half time which is mostly not a good sign and it wasn’t because he won’t be available for the game tomorrow,” Slot said. “The rest we have to see how long it will take. I am not expecting months, of course. Well not ‘of course’ but I am not predicting months, but let’s see if he can play against PSV or Bournemouth.”

Jones joins Joe Gomez and Diogo Jota on the injury list. Both players are expected to be out for “weeks rather than months,” but will certainly be unavailable in the near future.

Gomez has been sidelined since injuring his hamstring in the first half of the 5-0 win at West Ham United on December 29.

Jota, meanwhile, has missed recent games after suffering a muscle injury during his brief appearance in the 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest last week. The Portuguese forward has already missed a significant portion of the season following an upper body injury sustained against Chelsea in late October.

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Arne Slot must unleash key player as Liverpool await crucial answer to big question within 24 hours

In a dramatic 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest, Liverpool had to fight back after an early deficit, and the key to their second-half resurgence came from an inspired double substitution. The importance of Kostas Tsimikas and Diogo Jota‘s first touches in this match may not be fully realized until later in the season, but their impact was clear.

For now, Arne Slot will be left reflecting on several missed opportunities, as Forest goalkeeper Mats Sels was in outstanding form, denying Liverpool a crucial victory. Sels was superb, keeping out efforts from Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Jota, while Ola Aina also made a crucial clearance off the line. This resilience from Forest is exactly why they currently sit second in the league, showing their ability to withstand intense pressure from Liverpool’s attacking waves.

Though Forest may not challenge Liverpool for the Premier League title come May, their defense is proving formidable, and a top-four finish looks very attainable, especially with rivals like Chelsea and Manchester City faltering after their own 2-2 draws earlier this week. If Arne Slot truly believes those teams are still title contenders, then no ground was lost here for Liverpool.

In terms of defensive solidity, Forest certainly deserve recognition. Nikola Milenkovic and Murillo were exceptional, exemplifying why Forest have conceded only 20 goals in 21 games—matching Liverpool‘s defensive record. Only Arsenal have conceded fewer.

From the outset, Liverpool controlled the game, dominating possession against a Forest side that opted to sit back rather than press. The hosts were content to invite Liverpool forward and defend deep, but, as in their previous meeting in September, a sharp counterattack caught Liverpool off guard. Chris Wood capitalized on the hosts’ first shot on target, finding the net after just eight minutes.

January 25, 2025
Premier League issues two statements following Liverpool’s VAR reviews against Leicester City

Curtis Jones netted Liverpool’s second goal of the match, but had to wait for VAR to confirm it, following a disallowed strike from Cody Gakpo.

The Premier League has confirmed that Darwin Nunez was in an offside position when Gakpo’s potential second goal for Liverpool against Leicester City was ruled out at Anfield. Gakpo’s powerful shot into the net would have put Liverpool 3-1 up after coming from behind, but the goal was disallowed after a prolonged delay.

Assistant referee Matthew Wilks immediately raised his flag when Gakpo scored, but after reviewing the situation, it was determined that Mohamed Salah, whose cross was deflected to Gakpo, was onside. The next check focused on Nunez.

A statement from the Premier League Match Centre on X (formerly Twitter) read: “The referee’s call of no goal was checked and confirmed by the VAR as Nunez was in an offside position in the build-up.”

This was the second VAR intervention of the evening, as officials had previously reviewed Salah’s position during the build-up to Curtis Jones’ goal, which gave Liverpool the lead. Jones’ goal came just four minutes into the second half, but it also required a long wait for confirmation.

It was unclear exactly what the VAR officials at Stockley Park were reviewing. While Nunez was clearly offside, both Virgil van Dijk and Gakpo were also potentially in an offside position, though neither was interfering with play at that moment. The focus was on Salah, who initially appeared to be onside. Salah had passed to Alexis Mac Allister, who then crossed for Jones to score.

An earlier statement noted: “The referee’s call of goal was checked and confirmed by the VAR as Salah was in an onside position in the build-up.”

Liverpool had to fight hard to level the match against the struggling Foxes, who took the lead early on, with Jordan Ayew scoring inside the first four minutes. However, Gakpo’s curling shot from outside the box brought Liverpool back on level terms just before halftime, and Jones’ goal on his 100th Premier League appearance gave Liverpool the edge.

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Liverpool gets major update on contract negotiations with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk

Liverpool awaits decisions from Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold regarding their futures, but there is encouraging news for the former two.

Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are reportedly “very likely” to sign new contracts with Liverpool. The two, along with Trent Alexander-Arnold, are approaching the end of their current contracts, which expire at the season’s conclusion. All three players have received offers to extend their stays, but no decisions have been made yet.

The coming week could be crucial, as the trio may begin negotiating pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs starting in January unless they commit to new deals before then.

Although a final decision before the year’s end seems increasingly unlikely, positive news has emerged regarding Van Dijk and Salah. Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, speaking to GIVEMESPORT, stated that the pair are “very likely” to stay at Anfield.

Sheth also suggested that while Alexander-Arnold’s future remains uncertain, he has been less vocal about it compared to his teammates.

This update follows Van Dijk’s recent comments hinting at his desire to remain at Liverpool. Ahead of the Boxing Day match against Leicester, the captain told Amazon Prime: “I love the club, the club loves me. I love the fans, the fans love me and it is a very good foundation to be successful. In my opinion I can play for another three, four years at least at the highest level. We will see what the future brings.”

Liverpool.com notes that it has always seemed likely that Van Dijk and Salah would extend their contracts, while Alexander-Arnold might require more persuasion, particularly with the allure of Real Madrid. Hopefully, Sheth’s prediction holds true, and there will be no long wait for Van Dijk and Salah to sign new deals. With January just around the corner, it seems they might consider other offers, but the hope is they will ultimately remain with Liverpool.

December 28, 2024
Steven Gerrard believes Liverpool have a player who is ‘more talented’ than he was

One midfield star continues to shine for Liverpool under Arne Slot, with Steven Gerrard even claiming that the 23-year-old is more gifted than he was in his prime.

Gerrard believes Curtis Jones is technically more talented than he ever was and fully deserves his spot in the starting XI under Slot. The local talent reached his 150th appearance for Liverpool during their 3-3 draw with Newcastle on Wednesday, and given his role in Slot’s plans, this tally will likely keep growing.

Jones has appeared in the Reds’ last 11 league matches, scoring key goals against Chelsea and Newcastle. He’s also played a vital part in the team’s flawless Champions League campaign so far.

With Jones emerging as a standout under the Dutch manager, Gerrard acknowledged that his rise has been long-awaited and feels the young player surpasses him in certain technical areas. “Curtis is more talented than me in terms of technical, in terms of dribbling ability, in terms of manipulating the ball, close control,” Gerrard said, speaking to The Anfield Wrap.

“He felt he was more than ready [to break through]. The academy felt he was ready, and the first team were probably thinking, yeah, he’s ready to come and be a part of it but also to drop in and out.”

As Jones’ coach at U18 level, Gerrard recalled, “Every time Curtis played for me against Everton and Manchester United, he was the man of the match in every single game. That tells me that he’s got what you need to play for Liverpool. He needs to stay in this 11 now. He needs to take the challenge on.”

Jones’ next challenge was to be a Merseyside derby against Everton, but adverse weather led to the game being postponed. As Gerrard pointed out, these high-stakes fixtures, charged with local rivalry, tend to bring out the best in the 23-year-old.

“First things first, I just want to win,” Jones shared with Liverpool before the postponement. “I’m a lad who hates to lose, I just want to win any game – in training I want to win, in a small game with friends I want to win.”

He continued, “But this game is one where you’ve got friends who are Everton fans, you’ve got family and stuff. It’s always seen as a battle of the city. I’m not going to think about that it’s the last one there and things like that – it’s with them and their fans and their history there. It doesn’t really affect me.”

“But any time that I play a game, I always want to win – and especially around these, I want to win even more. I’d like to come away with three points and a good game.”

December 8, 2024

Curtis Jones poised for new long-term contract at Liverpool following strong performances under Arne Slot

Contracts have never been more of a focal point at Liverpool than they are this winter.

The club faces three significant issues to address in the coming months, as they scramble to secure the futures of Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

However, this trio of stars isn’t the only group of players in need of new contracts.

Negotiations are already underway with Luis Diaz and Ibrahima Konate, and Rousing The Kop understands that there are no anticipated issues with either player.

In addition, RTK can exclusively reveal that Liverpool is also planning to reward Curtis Jones’ strong form with a long-term deal.

Jones has been outstanding this season, and it is understood that a plan is being developed to offer the Liverpool academy graduate a lucrative new contract.

Curtis Jones set for new Liverpool deal
Jones had expressed his enthusiasm about working under Arne Slot before the new campaign began.

Although a minor injury kept him from starting the season in Slot’s lineup, the 23-year-old has since forced his way into the team.

RTK understands that Slot has been highly impressed by Jones, and both the Liverpool head coach and others within the club have been pleased with his recent development.

After making his full international debut for England, it is understood that there is now a belief that Jones is ready to step into a truly senior role at Liverpool.

RTK understands that a new contract for Jones is expected to reflect his elevated status.

Moreover, in the event that Trent Alexander-Arnold leaves Liverpool this summer, the club is confident that Jones could one day become a future captain.

Arne Slot impressed by Curtis Jones
Few players have generated as much excitement among supporters as Jones this season. His development has been evident to all.

Slot is understood to be a big admirer of Jones and sees him as an ideal option for one of Liverpool’s deeper-lying midfield roles.

Appearances	Goals	Assists
2018/19 1	0	0
2019/20 12	3	1
2020/21 34	4	5
2021/22 27	1	3
2022/23 23	3	1
2023/24 36	5	3
2024/25 15	1	3
Total 148	17	16

Curtis Jones at Liverpool

Slot called Jones “outstanding” from his first impression, and the Dutch coach looks set to have the opportunity to work with his No. 17 for a long time to come.

Jones signed his most recent contract with Liverpool in November 2022, which runs until 2027.

November 30, 2024

Curtis Jones asserts that an ‘incredible’ former Liverpool player surpassed Mo Salah in skill

Liverpool fans have had the privilege of watching remarkable players in recent seasons. Under Jurgen Klopp, the Reds built a team that triumphed in England, Europe, and globally. Some members of that iconic Liverpool squad, like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, have become legends at Anfield.

However, over the past few years, other Klopp-era legends have gradually departed. This trend may accelerate at the end of the current season, as Salah, Van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold will all see their contracts expire.

Among these players, Salah’s legacy stands out. Nonetheless, Curtis Jones claims the Egyptian isn’t the top player from Klopp’s trophy-winning side.

Curtis Jones praises Roberto Firmino

Jones, who has progressed through the Liverpool ranks, has been fortunate to learn from exceptional players. Though he was too young to fully participate in Klopp’s peak years, he was still involved.

Making his first-team debut in early 2019 and becoming a regular about 18 months later, Jones had the opportunity to play alongside some great talents. Sky Sports recently conducted a poll asking fans whom they thought Jones would name as the best player he’s played with at Liverpool.

“I think they’re saying Mo, one,” Jones remarked, with the presenter confirming that Salah had indeed won ‘by a landslide.’ “In terms of your goals, your assists, probably one of the best in the world since he’s come to our club for things like that,” he added.

However, Jones corrected the fans, declaring Roberto Firmino as his top former teammate. “The best player in my opinion that I was just like, wow, amazed by every single day is Firmino,” he stated. “Firmino’s a man that if you understand the game and you’re in love with the actual game… if you really love the game and you want to see a man who really understands the game and brings everybody into play then he’s the best.”

Virgil van Dijk concurs with Curtis Jones about Firmino

This revelation might surprise those who voted in the poll, where Firmino came in third. However, it shouldn’t be unexpected for keen observers. Back in April 2024, Van Dijk also named Firmino as the best player he’d witnessed at Liverpool.

“I think Bobby Firmino has been a big figure in the success we had over the last years,” the captain told Gary Lineker. “He kept those two next to him [Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah], who are outstanding and maybe one of the best wingers in Premier League history, kept them together.”

Bobby Firmino is undoubtedly one of the best in the world and a true Liverpool legend.

October 27, 2024
Mohamed Salah implements a new guideline for three Liverpool teammates following a summer signing.

Mohamed Salah has set a high standard at Liverpool since his transfer from AS Roma in 2017, and now he appears to be establishing some guidelines at the AXA Training Centre.

Curtis Jones has shared that Salah has introduced a new rule for regular visitors to Liverpool’s coffee bar at the training facility. Jones frequently visits the new station, often accompanied by Kostas Tsimikas, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Salah himself.

Jones noted that Salah has implemented some basic rules for those wanting to join the coffee club at the AXA Centre. “We’ve got this thing that we’re not allowed our phones when we’re there having coffee,” Jones explained to LFCTV. “It’s Mo [Salah] who has brought in the rule.

“If we’re inside there and I’m on the phone then Mo will tell Dom; ‘Text him and tell him that we’re here and want to have a conversation with him.’ In other words; ‘Get off your phone!’”

The time spent bonding over coffee seems to be beneficial for Liverpool, as they currently lead the Premier League and are second in the revamped Champions League after their 1-0 victory against RB Leipzig.

Next, the Reds face title rivals Arsenal on Sunday, with coach Arne Slot aware that a win in North London could put his team seven points ahead of the Gunners. Salah is expected to start that match and continues to be a crucial player for Liverpool, despite some uncertainties regarding his future with only a few months left on his contract.

Salah, now 32, has scored 218 goals in 361 appearances since joining Liverpool from AS Roma.

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Replacement for Mohamed Salah found as Liverpool contract speculation arises

Mohamed Salah may leave Liverpool for free at the season’s end, and former Reds midfielder Dietmar Hamann believes Omar Marmoush should be signed as his replacement.

Salah is in the final year of his contract, leaving uncertainty about whether he will extend his stay or depart. Hamann has endorsed Salah’s fellow countryman, Marmoush, as a suitable successor.

Currently playing in the Bundesliga for Eintracht Frankfurt, Marmoush has netted 10 goals in 10 appearances this season. When asked about the 25-year-old’s potential in the Premier League, Hamann stated to wettbasis, “Yes, absolutely.

“I think that both Frankfurt strikers (Marmoush and Hugo Ekitike) are on the radar of the English. A wonderful couple that harmonise very well with each other. With Ekitike, we knew that he had great potential.

“He had indicated that last season, in the winter, and now he seems to be taking off. With Marmoush, I was always surprised at Wolfsburg that he didn’t really get going. But he’s a wonderful player, a great finisher, and has pace.

“So they’re both players who are obviously very interesting for the Premier League. It will be difficult to follow Salah. I don’t think he has missed ten games in eight or nine years. So it will be difficult to follow him, but I would trust Marmoush to do it.”

Hamann’s comments come after former Liverpool teammate Jamie Carragher expressed hope that Salah will sign a new contract to secure his legacy by breaking records. Currently tied for ninth on the all-time Premier League goalscorers list with Jermain Defoe, Carragher believes Salah will aim to climb higher.

“He’ll have an eye on Thierry Henry and Frank Lampard by the end of this season, I would imagine,” Carragher remarked on Sky Sports. “I think stats like this are one of the biggest reasons why Mo Salah will sign a new contract at Liverpool.

“Of course they’ll be talking about money and length of contract, but I think these are the things that really get the juices flowing for Mo Salah. He breaks all the records at Liverpool, but getting as far as he can up those lists, I think that’s a big part of his focus as a player.”

October 26, 2024
“I’m curious about his diet” – Gabriel Agbonlahor comments on Liverpool’s ‘bully’ performance against Chelsea

Gabriel Agbonlahor has expressed admiration for Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah, particularly highlighting his “bullying” performance against Chelsea. Salah not only scored a penalty but also assisted Curtis Jones’ winning goal, helping Liverpool stay at the top of the Premier League.

Agbonlahor, who included the 32-year-old in his TalkSPORT team of the week, was so impressed that he wanted to know Salah’s dietary and training regimen. This season, Salah has already recorded five goals and five assists in the league, maintaining a consistent presence since Slot took over as head coach.

Reflecting on Salah’s impact, Agbonlahor remarked: “Mo Salah, where do you start? The way he was bullying the Chelsea defence, I want to know what Mo Salah eats. I want to know his workouts because he is so strong. He took his penalty very well – no-nonsense, no casual run-up, run up to it and put your foot through it. Goal.”

He also praised Salah’s assist for Jones, saying, “Also, his ball for Curtis Jones’ goal was outstanding. Not many players see that and he was making these sorts of balls and passes all game. His vision is out of this world.”

Agbonlahor concluded by stating, “If it’s £450,000 a week, I don’t care what it is. They can’t afford to lose Mo Salah on a free transfer. Outstanding talent and still playing at a high level.”

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Arne Slot REACHES agreement for IMPORTANT Liverpool signing

Liverpool is poised to finalize a deal for a significant addition to Arne Slot’s coaching team.

The Dutch manager has already enlisted several former colleagues from his time at Feyenoord, including his assistant Sipke Hulshoff and the club’s lead physical performance coach, Ruben Peeters.

It’s evident that Slot prefers to have trusted personnel with whom he has an established rapport. This approach is not uncommon; Jurgen Klopp similarly brought in his own staff when he joined the club.

Now, it appears Slot is on the verge of incorporating another vital staff member from Feyenoord into the Anfield setup.

Liverpool is set to appoint Roderick van der Ham

According to Dutch outlet 1908.nl. The new addition to Arne Slot’s staff will be Feyenoord’s video analyst, with whom Slot has worked since 2022 before his move to Anfield this summer.

During their collaboration, Slot and the 33-year-old Van der Ham worked together for over 95 matches. Van der Ham has held various positions in football since he was 18, including serving as a video analyst for the Dutch U19 national team and at clubs like RKC Waalwijk and Heracles in both the Dutch first and second tiers. He also previously worked as a fitness coach at NAC Breda.

While it’s unclear what role Van der Ham will assume at Liverpool, it’s likely to be similar to his previous position under Slot. He also appears to have some familiarity with English football, having visited Manchester City’s campus in 2018, as noted on his Instagram.

At 33, Van der Ham demonstrates considerable drive and ambition, making him an ideal fit for Liverpool’s staff. Slot’s familiarity with him indicates he values Van der Ham highly, further justifying his appointment.

October 23, 2024
Injury update and latest news for Liverpool following the international break, ahead of the Nottingham Forest match

Liverpool will resume Premier League action this weekend by hosting Nottingham Forest, aiming to maintain their perfect record under Arne Slot after his impressive start with three consecutive wins.

The Reds are set to take the field again this week, with Slot looking to achieve four victories from four Premier League matches following his recent triumph at Old Trafford.

Liverpool players have been away on international duty over the past 10 days, but they have returned to the AXA training facility as they prepare for Nottingham Forest’s visit on Saturday.

Liverpool are heavily favored to win against Forest, who are expected to struggle in the Premier League this season. Despite this, Forest themselves are unbeaten with one win and two draws and will approach the match with confidence that they can secure a result against Slot’s team.

Liverpool.com has provided an update on Liverpool’s injury situation, including one key player already ruled out for the match and three others who will undergo late fitness tests.

Alexis Mac Allister

Liverpool’s central midfielder experienced an injury scare while on international duty with Argentina but seems to be fit to play after appearing off the bench for his national team shortly thereafter. Mac Allister played 79 minutes and scored against Chile but was substituted due to a muscle injury, raising concerns among Reds fans. However, it appears to have been a precaution, and he should be available for the squad, though it is uncertain if Slot will start him.

Harvey Elliott

Liverpool will likely be without Elliott for the next six weeks or more due to an injury sustained while with England’s under-21s. Elliott has had limited opportunities under Slot but would have been a candidate to replace Mac Allister had the latter missed the game. Instead, the 22-year-old will spend the coming month and a half recovering from a fractured foot.

Curtis Jones

Curtis Jones is expected to return to the squad after recently regaining full fitness. Jones has been absent at the start of the season due to a muscle injury but has recovered and should be included in the lineup against Nottingham Forest.

Federico Chiesa

Liverpool’s latest signing, Chiesa, is anticipated to be part of the squad for the upcoming match after spending time with Liverpool’s youth team during the international break, as he was not selected for the Italian national team. Chiesa had not featured for Juventus before joining Liverpool and was not included in the squad against Manchester United. Following 10 days with the youth team, the skilled attacker is now ready to join Slot’s squad.

Liverpool.com’s predicted lineup against Forest: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, Konate, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Jota, Diaz.

September 13, 2024
5 talking points – Liverpool suffers injury scare but opens the Arne Slot era against Real Betis

Dominik Szoboloszai’s goal in the first half of Liverpool’s match against Real Betis gave the Reds their first win under Arne Slot since the departure of Jurgen Klopp.

In Arne Slot’s first game in charge, Liverpool defeated Real Betis, with Dominik Szoboszlai scoring the first goal of the Dutchman’s rule.

In the friendly known as the “Iron City Showdown” at Pittsburgh’s Acrisure Stadium, the Reds defeated the La Liga team thanks to a beautiful finish set up by Mo Salah for the Kop midfielder.

Although Curtis Jones had an injury in the first half that may raise concerns, Slot’s team had a rather uneventful and unremarkable start to their preseason trip in the United States.

In the second half of the match, Manuel Pellegrini’s team barely had any threats until Szoboszlai fired wide. In a match where Slot deployed twenty-three men, Betis managed to push substitute keeper Vitezslav Jaros beyond Rodri, but they were unable to get an equaliser.

In front of 42, 679 spectators at the Pittsburgh Steelers’ home stadium, Trey Nyoni, a 17-year-old midfielder, was one of the game’s star performers. Nyoni replaced the injured Jones in the first half.

Formation

It was evident that Slot would alter Liverpool’s style of play from the Jurgen Klopp era and that this would involve a completely different formation. The Reds’ formation was unclear for the first few minutes, but when they had the ball, they quickly adopted a 4-2-4 formation.

Although it’s difficult to read too much into friendly matches, particularly in the heat and on a heavy pitch at the NFL stadium, there was undoubtedly a more possession-based and methodical approach than there had been under Jurgen Klopp.

Playing two No. 10s was more of a necessity because there wasn’t a striker available at the time, Slot stated thereafter.

Curtis Jones injured once more?

Just a day prior, the England midfielder was praising his new boss and discussing how he had a “clean slate” to establish himself and secure a regular starting position under Slot. Everything was going smoothly. roughly twenty-seven minutes. Jones was made to leave before the thirty minutes had passed and headed right down the tunnel. A poor attempt at an audition.

It looked like he was having trouble with his hamstrings. It might have been a safety measure. However, Jones has struggled throughout his first-team career with nagging injuries that prevent him from building momentum. He’ll be praying that this isn’t just another spell of being idle and that the timing is off.

After the match, Slot made the following statement: “I don’t think it’s clear how awful it is yet. He may have continued, but it’s possible that you could tell that he wasn’t playing at his best.

“It was preferable to pull him off in a friendly game because our trip has a lot of days left. We’ll have to wait and see, but maybe he can bounce back from [it] quite quickly. We’re hoping for a quick recovery so we can see him in the upcoming games.

Will Dominik Szoboszlai continue forward?

The Hungarian captain was one of the midfield three in Jurgen Klopp’s first season at Liverpool. But in this instance, he was positioned inside Salah and next to Harvey Elliott as one of four forwards.

Please accept two false nines. Although it didn’t look like it, Szoboszlai was able to move freely in the area between the Betis assault and defence.

The top player from Hungary scored admirably after running onto a ball from Salah. Szoboszlai, who cost £60 million to sign from RB Leipzig, had an outstanding first half of the previous season. However, he had trouble following his injury return against Newcastle on New Year’s Day. In this new Slot job, can he find his best again? This place definitely revived him.

Hard tackling.

It appears that no one informed the Spaniards that this was a preseason friendly. The La Liga team did not back down from a tackle. Arne Slot’s team didn’t seem to be bothered by Manuel Pellegrini’s team leaving the Reds with a few late goals.

However, Wataru Endo received a yellow card for shoving, and one of Liverpool’s midfield players was the one who was booked. Subsequently, in the second half, Jarrell Quansah tackled Pablo Garcia and was given a yellow card.

Impressive performance by Trey Nyoni.

Despite being just 17 years old, the midfield player appeared more seasoned than his years as he replaced the injured Curtis Jones in the first half. Nyoni, who made his Reds debut the previous season, appeared skilled with the ball and produced some excellent passes when he teamed up with Tyler Morton first, then Endo.

Having played for England at the U16, U17, and U18 levels, the midfielder was recruited by Liverpool in 2023 from Leicester’s junior academy. It was easy to see why based on this data.

As he proceeded to develop into the game, he made a few excellent starts in the second half. Do not hesitate to use forward balls to breach the lines.

July 27, 2024
Against Brighton, Liverpool may welcome back from injury two key players.

Against Brighton, Liverpool will attempt to maintain their Premier League title challenge.

When Brighton visits Anfield on Sunday afternoon, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp plans to welcome back two members of the first team. With Manchester City and Arsenal battling it out for the Premier League title, the Reds will probably need all hands on deck from now until the end of the season.

This season, Klopp has been without several of his key players for extended periods of time, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Alisson Becker. Due to the cumulative effect of injuries, only Salah is expected to play against the Seagulls.

The Merseyside team is likely to benefit from Ibrahima Konate’s projected return to central defence. Since Liverpool’s 5-1 annihilation of Sparta Prague on March 7, the 24-year-old has not played for the club.

However, Konate was called up to the France team and participated in all ninety minutes of their 3-2 friendly victory over Chile on Tuesday night, playing alongside William Saliba, the competition’s main challenger.

In Konate’s absence, Jarell Quansah has played brilliantly with Virgil van Dijk, but the Warrington native will undoubtedly anticipate giving way to his more seasoned teammate on Sunday.

Another player who appears ready to play this weekend is Curtis Jones, who Klopp stated had a higher chance of playing than any of his injured teammates. Since leaving the game during the victory against Brentford in February, the midfield player has missed the last ten games.

In all competitions this season, Jones has scored five goals and assisted on three more, making him a true asset when in form. However, Jones could only be able to play a supporting role because Wataru Endo, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai have been vying for the three centre midfield positions in recent weeks.
Despite suffering injuries during the loss to United, Darwin Nunez and Andrew Robertson should be able to play against Brighton. During the international break, the former played for Scotland, and the latter pulled out of the Uruguay team to concentrate on his recuperation.

Joel Matip and Thiago Alcantara, two long-term absentees whose contracts expire in June, might have played their last game for Liverpool, but the same cannot be said for them.

Stefan Bajcetic and Alisson are also anticipated to make another appearance before the season ends, although Diogo Jota and Alexander-Arnold are not expected to be back for the Brighton match. Instead, they should be back in early April.

More news……

Liverpool fans can rejoice because a vital player will be back in the starting lineup next week.

The good news for Liverpool is that Ibrahima Konate is expected to start for France against Chile on Tuesday night.

L’Equipe claims that the centre back, who has been sidelined due to injury for the past few weeks, is prepared to play in the friendly.

The defender was substituted out during Liverpool’s Europa League first-leg match against Sparta Praha. Since then, he has missed a number of important games for the Reds, including their FA Cup loss to Man United last week.

Prior to their match against Brighton at Anfield on Sunday, Liverpool supporters will be eager to see him return in the starting lineup, but the French player must win against Chile first.

How significant is Ibrahima Konate to Liverpool?

Given that the match against Chile is merely a friendly, Liverpool supporters will be hopeful that Konate survives. The centre back, who has played in 32 games for the Merseyside team this season, is an important member of Liverpool’s team.

It is no coincidence that the Reds have only triumphed in one of the three games in which the 24-year-old defender has missed due to injury. Klopp prefers the 24-year-old to combine with Virgil van Dijk.

With a few difficult games remaining and the desire to cap off his tenure at Anfield as best he can, the German coach will need everyone healthy for the last stretch.

March 29, 2024