Liverpool Latest Team News and Predicted XI vs Plymouth Argyle | OneFootball

Liverpool Face Plymouth Argyle Test with Key Injuries in FA Cup Clash

Liverpool travel to Home Park on Sunday, where they will face Plymouth Argyle in the FA Cup. Manager Arne Slot has confirmed the squad will be without some key players, notably England international Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is sidelined due to injury.

Alexander-Arnold Sidelined, Derby Doubt Lingers

Arne Slot addressed Alexander-Arnold’s status during a Friday press conference, dampening hopes of his return for both the Plymouth clash and the upcoming Merseyside derby against Everton.

“No, I don’t think so yet. That’s going to be too early for him,” Slot stated regarding Sunday’s fixture. “Difficult to say [about the derby]. Like I said before, it’s not going to take months and not even weeks but that’s only three days after the Plymouth Argyle game, so let’s wait and see if he is available.”

Photo: IMAGO

Slot remains cautious about rushing his star back into action, emphasising the need to consider long-term fitness. “We also have to look at the long term, of course we don’t want to take any risks with so many games afterwards coming up. But if he’s fit then of course we will use him.”

Squad Rotation Expected as Morton Joins Injury List

With a busy schedule ahead, Slot is expected to rotate his squad for the FA Cup tie. Midfielder Tyler Morton is another absentee after suffering a shoulder injury, further thinning Liverpool’s midfield options.

Photo: IMAGO

Despite these setbacks, Liverpool’s depth remains formidable. The predicted XI features Caoimhin Kelleher in goal, with a backline of Conor Bradley, Jarell Quansah, Wataru Endo, and Kostas Tsimikas. The midfield trio is likely to include James McConnell alongside Alexis Mac Allister, with Harvey Elliott providing additional creativity. Federico Chiesa, Luis Diaz, and Darwin Nunez are expected to spearhead the attack.

Liverpool Predicted XI: Kelleher; Bradley, Quansah, Endo, Tsimikas; McConnell, Mac Allister; Elliott, Chiesa, Diaz; Nunez

Injured: Alexander-Arnold, Morton

Kick-off Details and Where to Watch

The FA Cup match kicks off at 3pm GMT on Sunday, 9 February 2025, at Home Park in Plymouth. Fans can catch the action live on ITV and STV, ensuring no one misses this classic cup fixture.

While the Reds are favourites, Plymouth Argyle will be eager to cause an upset on home turf, especially against a Liverpool side juggling injuries and fixture congestion.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s Tactical Balancing Act

Arne Slot faces a delicate balancing act as he navigates Liverpool’s FA Cup ambitions alongside their Premier League and European commitments. His strategic squad rotations will be key in maintaining momentum across competitions while safeguarding player fitness.

As Liverpool prepare to face Plymouth Argyle, fans will hope that the Reds’ depth and tactical discipline are enough to see them through to the next round, even without some of their key stars on the pitch.