Slot offers injury update as Gravenberch nears Liverpool return, but Isak and Jones remain doubts | OneFootball

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has hinted that midfielder Ryan Gravenberch could be back in contention for Saturday’s Premier League clash at Anfield.

The Liverpool star could be ready for the Aston Villa game, but Alexander Isak and Curtis Jones remain fitness concerns for the Reds.

Gravenberch has been sidelined since twisting his ankle during a Liverpool game on October 19.

Speaking after Wednesday’s Carabao Cup defeat, Slot suggested the Dutch midfielder has the best chance of returning among the club’s current absentees.

“I think Ryan has a good chance,” said Slot (via Liverpoolfc.com). “The others, let’s wait and see tomorrow and Friday.

“I don’t know all of them, but Ryan has the best chance from all of them.”

Lauded as a ‘special talent’, the 23-year-old’s return would be a welcome boost for Liverpool, who looked short of control in midfield against Palace.

Gravenberch’s dynamism and ball progression from deep have been missed in recent weeks, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz likely to partner him if he is passed fit.

Meanwhile, Isak and Jones are still recovering from groin injuries and will need to pass late fitness tests before Saturday.

Their potential absence could see Hugo Ekitike lead the line once again, having started in midweek.

Elsewhere, goalkeeper Alisson Becker and right-back Jeremie Frimpong remain out with hamstring injuries.

The Brazilian has stepped up his recovery by returning to light outdoor training at the AXA Training Centre, but neither player is expected to feature this weekend.

Liverpool’s growing injury list has coincided with a brutal run of form, leaving them teetering on the edge of crisis.

The Reds have lost six of their last seven games in all competitions, a staggering slump for a side that began the season with title aspirations.

Alarm bells must be ringing for Slot, whose early promise is quickly evaporating under the weight of poor results.

The Dutchman attempted to downplay the pressure after Wednesday’s defeat, but the reality is Liverpool urgently need to arrest this slump.

Another loss or two, and Slot’s future could be under real scrutiny at Anfield.