Report: Liverpool face fresh injury concerns as title race intensifies | OneFootball

Liverpool Injury News: Gakpo, Gomez and Morton Fitness Updates

Liverpool’s relentless pursuit of the Premier League title continues, but injuries remain an unwelcome companion on their journey. Arne Slot’s side secured a crucial yet nervy 2-1 victory over Wolves at Anfield, restoring a seven-point lead over Arsenal. However, with another demanding fixture list ahead, including a midweek trip to Aston Villa followed by a showdown with Manchester City, squad depth will be tested.

Amid the tactical challenges Slot faces, fitness concerns continue to shape Liverpool’s campaign. Curtis Jones is available for selection again following a one-match suspension, but uncertainty lingers over key players ahead of a defining run of matches.

Gakpo’s Knock Leaves Liverpool Waiting

Cody Gakpo’s absence against Wolves was a cause for concern, particularly given his growing influence in the squad. The Dutch forward was forced off against Everton after taking a knock, and Slot later confirmed it was not a minor issue.

“Cody didn’t have a yellow card or whatever! He got a knock in the Everton game. A few of us got a knock but he got an injury from that,” Slot stated.

While the club has not ruled out a swift return, the quick turnaround before the Villa match makes his inclusion uncertain.

“Under debate. It’s fast, Wednesday already, so let’s wait and see. It wasn’t a soft knock then!” Slot added when asked if Gakpo could feature against Villa.

His potential return will be closely monitored, particularly with crucial fixtures looming on the horizon.

Potential return date: February 19 vs Aston Villa or February 23 vs Manchester City

Gomez Facing Another Frustrating Spell on the Sidelines

Joe Gomez’s season has been punctuated by setbacks, and his latest injury compounds Liverpool’s defensive concerns. After missing all of January with a hamstring issue, Gomez returned for the FA Cup clash with Plymouth, only to last just ten minutes before being forced off again.

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Slot expressed concern about the injury’s recurrence, hinting that the same leg may have been affected. Subsequent reports confirmed another hamstring problem, leaving the England international facing further time out as medical staff assess the extent of the damage.

With no official timeline provided, Gomez’s participation in upcoming matches remains highly unlikely, unless unexpected progress is made.

Potential return date: Unknown

Morton’s Season Likely Over After Surgery

Tyler Morton has played a peripheral role for Liverpool this season, making sporadic appearances across multiple competitions. However, the 22-year-old’s campaign now appears to have been cut short after undergoing surgery for a lingering shoulder injury sustained in December’s Carabao Cup quarter-final against Southampton.

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Initial reports suggest a three-month recovery period, ruling Morton out for the remainder of the season barring any unforeseen acceleration in his rehabilitation process.

Potential return date: May 2025

Managing Squad Fitness Amidst a Gruelling Schedule

Liverpool’s upcoming fixture list offers little respite, with crucial league encounters and cup competitions demanding rotation. The return of Curtis Jones adds midfield stability, but the uncertainty surrounding Gakpo and Gomez places added strain on Slot’s squad management.

With injuries a persistent theme this season, Liverpool’s title challenge may well hinge on how effectively they navigate these setbacks while maintaining their attacking intensity. As the club awaits further clarity on the recovery timelines of key players, all eyes remain on the coming weeks as the Premier League race tightens.