Liverpool FC has been dealt a fresh blow as first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker is absent from the team once again, merely four days after making his long-awaited comeback from injury.
Unexpected Setback for Key Player
The Brazilian international is missing from the starting lineup for the Champions League fixture against PSV Eindhoven at a frigid Anfield. Giorgi Mamardashvili steps in to deputise, just as he did during Alisson's previous absence.
Fortunately for the Premier League champions and their supporters, the issue is believed to be an illness and not a recurrence of the hamstring injury that sidelined him for nearly two months. This news will come as a relief, given the team's struggles without him, having lost eight of their last eleven matches during his spell on the treatment table.
Slot Forced into Attacking Change
Manager Arne Slot has been compelled to make two alterations to the side that suffered a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest last Saturday. Along with the change in goal, Hugo Ekitike comes into the attack, replacing Alexander Isak.
Isak struggled to make an impact during the weekend's embarrassment, managing only one tame chance before being substituted for Federico Chiesa. Ekitike, who joined the club in the summer, has reportedly impressed more than his Swedish teammate and earns his starting spot for this crucial European encounter.
Seeking a Victory to Lift the Gloom
Despite a disappointing run in domestic competition, Liverpool's form in the Champions League has been strong, with three wins and just one loss so far in the campaign. A victory against the Dutch outfit is seen as vital to improving the mood around the club.
Slot has still named a powerful side for the match, with focus soon shifting back to the Premier League and a trip to face West Ham United on Sunday.
