Liverpool manager Arne Slot has delivered a significant team news update ahead of Saturday's Premier League encounter with Nottingham Forest at Anfield, confirming the return of a key figure but revealing a fresh injury crisis.
Goalkeeper Boost and Defensive Blow
The major positive for the Reds is the return of first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker. The Brazilian is ready to feature after missing eight matches with a hamstring injury. His deputy, Giorgi Mamardashvili, performed admirably in his absence, but the squad will be bolstered by having their number one back between the posts.
However, the news is far less encouraging regarding two other key players. Florian Wirtz and Conor Bradley have both been ruled out of the Forest match after picking up injuries while on international duty. Slot confirmed that both are suffering from muscular problems.
Injury Timelines and Squad Dilemma
The situation is particularly concerning for right-back Conor Bradley. The 22-year-old Northern Ireland captain faces a more extended period on the sidelines. Slot expects Bradley to miss the next 22 days, potentially ruling him out of several crucial fixtures during the intense winter schedule.
"Both are muscular problems. I don't expect Conor to be involved in the next 22 days," the Dutch manager stated. "Maybe he will return towards the end of that period, unless a miracle happens. Florian should be back sooner; it depends on how things go but it shouldn't take too long."
This absence, coupled with a similar two-to-three week injury for summer signing Jeremie Frimpong, leaves Slot with a significant selection headache at right-back. Curtis Jones has previously filled the role, and Joe Gomez is another option, though his fitness is a concern having only completed 90 minutes once in 2025.
Context and Implications
These setbacks come at an inopportune time for Liverpool as they aim to close the eight-point gap to Premier League leaders Arsenal that had developed before the international break. The return of Alisson provides a major lift, but the mounting injuries in defence will test the squad's depth. All eyes will be on Anfield to see how Slot navigates this challenging period, starting with the visit of Sean Dyche's Nottingham Forest.
