Slot reveals Liverpool injury blow but backs Elliott to step up | OneFootball

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has confirmed that Curtis Jones will miss Saturday’s Premier League clash against Ipswich Town due to injury.

The 23-year-old midfielder, a key figure in Liverpool’s midfield this season, was forced off at half-time during the midweek Champions League 2-1 victory over Lille after providing a crucial assist for Mohamed Salah’s opening goal.

Slot said the decision to withdraw Jones was precautionary but has now revealed the injury may sideline him for more than just the Ipswich game.

“He went out during half-time, so that’s usually not a good sign,” Slot explained in Friday’s pre-match press conference. “And it wasn’t, because he will not be available for the game tomorrow. The rest, we have to wait and see how long it’s going to take. I’m not expecting months, but let’s see if he’s available for PSV or Bournemouth.”

Jones’ absence will undoubtedly be a blow for Liverpool. The 23-year-old has been instrumental in midfield this season, consistently delivering strong performances in both domestic and European competitions. However, his injury may present an opportunity for Harvey Elliott to prove himself.

Elliott has had limited game time under Slot this season, having battled with an injury earlier in the campaign. However, the 20-year-old midfielder has begun to make an impact in recent weeks. After starting in the FA Cup clash against Accrington Stanley, Elliott also came off the bench in the midweek match against Lille, where he scored a decisive second-half goal to help secure Liverpool’s victory.

Slot acknowledged the competition in Liverpool’s midfield but praised Elliott’s recent displays, challenging him to maintain his level of performance.

“Just keep bringing in performances like he is,” Slot said. “It’s not only about the players, it’s about the competition. He is competing with five players and some youngsters as well – Wataru (Endo), Ryan [Gravenberch], Curtis, Macca [Mac Allister], and himself. The midfielders we have at the moment… he has to keep performing like he has, and then his playing time will increase.”

With Jones sidelined, Elliott could find himself in contention for more minutes, especially with Slot managing a congested fixture list.

In defense, Ibrahima Konaté continues to be a key figure despite ongoing concerns about his fitness. Slot revealed the Frenchman has been playing through discomfort, with Liverpool taking a cautious approach to his workload.

“You have seen how we managed that [injury],” Slot explained. “Jarell [Quansah] played against Lille and Accrington. That is a bit because [Konaté] has some pain. We don’t exaggerate it, but he feels it a bit. It’s safe for him to play, but you’re aware of playing someone every three days when they have been out for a bit.