Two Liverpool stars set to miss Spurs clash after latest update | OneFootball

Arne Slot weighs Liverpool fitness gamble ahead of Tottenham test

Liverpool travel to Tottenham with a familiar question hanging over them, not about tactics or temperament, but about availability. Arne Slot’s second season has been shaped by poor form and by an injury list that seems to lengthen just as rhythm begins to form. This weekend is no different, with decisions to be made that will shape both selection and expectation.

Dominik Szoboszlai remains the focal point. His influence has been unmistakable, a midfielder who sets the tempo and drags Liverpool forward with urgency and intelligence. Until last weekend, he had played every Premier League minute. When he went down against Brighton, concern rippled quickly through the stands and beyond.

Slot admitted after the match that the ankle “didn’t look good”, but even then there was a sense of caution rather than alarm. That feeling has grown stronger as the week has progressed.

Injury list grows as options narrow

Liverpool’s squad depth has been tested repeatedly this season and Saturday will offer little respite. Slot confirmed that Cody Gakpo and Joe Gomez will not be involved against Tottenham, extending a run of absences that has quietly disrupted continuity.

The update on Gakpo at least carried a hint of encouragement. “He had a scan that looked promising, so we’re not as worried as we were one or two weeks ago, he might come back earlier than expected, but definitely not tomorrow or next week,” said Slot. “Joe [Gomez] is not in the squad as well for the weekend.”

It leaves Liverpool lighter in key areas, particularly in attack, where Gakpo’s versatility has often offered balance. Tottenham away demands control and courage, qualities that become harder to sustain as options thin.

Szoboszlai fitness holds key

The spotlight, though, remains firmly on Szoboszlai. Slot confirmed the midfielder has returned to partial training, a step that suggests readiness rather than risk. “Dominik trained in parts yesterday for the first time, so let’s see how he is today and tomorrow,” he said. “Jeremie [Frimpong] is in the squad again as well.”

Photo: IMAGO

Pressed on whether Szoboszlai would start, Slot was clear and characteristically direct. “It completely depends on how he does today [if he will start the game],” he explained. “If he can fulfil the whole session and the medical staff and the player feel comfortable for him to play then he will start.

“If he can’t fulfil the whole session or doesn’t feel comfortable himself, then we will have a discussion. But Dom has been as starter for me and for the performances he has put in, tomorrow he will be starter if he’s fit.”

The message is simple. If Szoboszlai is ready, he plays. If not, Liverpool adapt.

Selection signals intent at Spurs

There is an underlying confidence in Slot’s tone, an understanding that managing minutes now can protect influence later. Even if Szoboszlai begins on the bench, the expectation is that he will play some part, with Wolves next on the horizon.