Liverpool facing major injury concern ahead of West Ham United clash | OneFootball

Liverpool Sweating on Midfielder’s Fitness Before West Ham United Clash

Liverpool prepare for another pivotal Premier League afternoon at Anfield, this time against West Ham United, with fitness concerns hovering over one of their most influential players, Florian Wirtz.

Arne Slot, now firmly into his second season after delivering the Premier League title in 2024-25, knows margins are fine. The table is congested, the pressure constant, and Liverpool’s campaign has developed a flair for late drama. Thirteen goals scored or conceded in the 90th minute or later, nine of which directly altered results, tells its own story. This is a side that live on the edge.

Wirtz Absence Raises Questions

Florian Wirtz was not spotted in training at the AXA Training Centre ahead of Saturday’s meeting with West Ham United. The German playmaker missed the recent 1-0 win away at Nottingham Forest, a match decided by Alexis Mac Allister’s 97th minute strike, and remains a doubt.

Slot attempted to calm nerves earlier in the week, describing the issue as minor. Still, back injuries are rarely straightforward and Liverpool are proceeding with caution.

He said: “We don’t think it is very serious, but he felt his back too much during the warm-up to start. He wasn’t able to be 100 per cent or even close to 100 per cent. I think after being in this league for six, seven or eight months, he now understands no matter how good you are on the ball, you need to be 100 per cent at this level.

“So, we decided not to play him. We hope and expect he will be able to be with us again next week but you never know how things work out.”

Photo: IMAGO

It is a pragmatic stance from Slot. Wirtz has been central to Liverpool’s attacking rhythm this season, drifting between lines, dictating tempo and providing incision in tight spaces. Without him, Liverpool lose a layer of unpredictability.

Liverpool Form and Fine Margins

Liverpool sit sixth, level on points with Chelsea and three behind Manchester United. Twelve months ago they were 12 clear at the summit. Football moves quickly.

They are chasing a third successive 1-0 league victory following narrow wins over Nottingham Forest and Sunderland. Clean sheets have been earned, not gifted. Efficiency has replaced extravagance in recent weeks.

Historically, Liverpool have dominated West Ham United in this fixture. Just one defeat in the last 19 top flight meetings, 15 wins and three draws, underlines that superiority. Since a 3-2 loss in November 2021, they have won seven of the last eight encounters. Form, however, does not guarantee comfort.

West Ham United Seek Response

West Ham United arrive at Anfield looking for redemption after a 2-0 defeat at the London Stadium three months ago. Relegation concerns linger, and desperation can be dangerous.

For Liverpool, the equation is clear. Champions League qualification remains the minimum objective. Dropped points at home would sting, particularly given how tightly packed the standings are.

Jeremie Frimpong’s return to full training offers encouragement, yet the spotlight remains firmly on Florian Wirtz. One more training session could prove decisive. If he is cleared, Liverpool gain composure and craft. If not, Slot must recalibrate.

In seasons defined by moments, availability often shapes destiny. Liverpool know that better than most.