Arne Slot provides injury update on four Liverpool stars ahead of Nottingham Forest clash | OneFootball

Arne Slot provides Liverpool injury update ahead of Nottingham Forest clash

Liverpool manager Arne Slot delivered a detailed injury update during his pre match press conference, offering supporters clarity before the trip to Nottingham Forest. With the Premier League champions balancing momentum and squad fitness, every update carries added significance as the season moves into a decisive stretch.

The Reds have navigated recent matches with a reshuffled defence, often deploying midfielders out of position. That context shaped much of Slot’s briefing, where he addressed the situations involving Jeremie Frimpong, Alexander Isak, Joe Gomez and Wataru Endo.

Speaking about Frimpong, Slot confirmed, “Jeremie will not be involved this weekend. We hope he will be involved next week if things go as planned.” The update suggests Liverpool could regain a natural right back option soon, though the Forest match arrives slightly too early.

On Endo, the news carried a heavier tone. Slot admitted, “Wata will be out for a long time. We don’t know exactly how long.” The midfielder’s setback has forced tactical improvisation in recent fixtures and leaves a noticeable gap in depth during a demanding schedule.

Joe Gomez boost strengthens defensive options

Perhaps the most encouraging part of this Liverpool Injury Update concerned Joe Gomez. Slot stated clearly, “I think Joe is ready to start [against Forest]. Yes, he is.” That sentence alone may reassure supporters who have watched midfielders fill in across the back line in recent weeks.

Photo: IMAGO

Since late January, Liverpool have seen Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones operate at right back, highlighting both the squad’s versatility and the strain caused by injuries. Gomez’s return offers balance and experience, qualities that become vital during the closing months of a title defence.

The manager has consistently emphasised adaptability, and the players who stepped in deserve credit for maintaining results. Still, having a specialist defender available again should stabilise the shape and allow others to return to their natural roles.

Alexander Isak recovery timeline explained

Slot also addressed the longer term recovery of Alexander Isak, whose absence has tested Liverpool’s attacking depth. Providing cautious optimism, he said, “Alex has been on the [training] pitch with his running shoes for the first time this week, so it will still be a while…It will be somewhere around the international break. That depends on whether he has a setback. It’ll be the end of March, start of April when he’s back with the group, but it doesn’t mean he’s ready to start playing straight away.”

Those comments underline a careful approach. Liverpool are aware of the striker’s importance, especially after his high profile arrival, and there is little appetite to rush his return. Hugo Ekitike has carried the attacking responsibility admirably, yet managing minutes could prove crucial as fixtures intensify.

Squad outlook as Liverpool prepare for Forest

Taken together, this Injury Update paints a mixed picture for Liverpool. Short term relief arrives through Gomez’s availability, while Frimpong edges closer to a comeback. Endo faces a prolonged absence, and Isak’s recovery continues at a measured pace.

If the squad can navigate the coming weeks without further setbacks, reinforcements returning at the right time could shape the final run in and sustain Liverpool’s push across multiple fronts.