Despite being bolstered by Dominik Szoboszlai’s return, an injury-depleted Liverpool must navigate several key absences as they look to secure a top-four foothold against Leeds United.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot is navigating a significant injury crisis as his side prepares to host Leeds United at Anfield today.
The Reds could be without up to ten players, including star forward Mohamed Salah, who is currently away at the Africa Cup of Nations, and long-term absentee Alexander Isak.
Despite these challenges, Liverpool received a timely boost with the return of Dominik Szoboszlai, who missed the previous match against Wolves due to suspension.
Slot has expressed the need for better “game management” following a dramatic 3-3 draw at Elland Road last month.
He highlighted the impact of limited bench options on his tactical flexibility, noting that substitutions are key to seeing out results.
Reflecting on past successes, Slot remarked, “Last year a lot of times when we were 2-1 up, or one goal up, I brought Wataru Endo in,” underscoring the importance of defensive reinforcements during late-game pressure.
The visitors also face personnel issues, with Leeds manager Daniel Farke missing key defender Joe Rodon and winger Daniel James.
Slot remains wary of Leeds’ tactical versatility, particularly their late-game shifts in formation.
Reflecting on the previous encounter’s collapse, Slot admitted, “I already said, I don’t know if everybody notices it, but we miss quite a lot of players. That’s why it’s so special for these players [who] are fit that they are bringing these results in.”