Team News: Seven Liverpool stars set to miss Crystal Palace clash | OneFootball

Liverpool vs Crystal Palace Team News: Goalkeeper Decisions and Injury Updates

Liverpool head into their Premier League clash with Crystal Palace facing a familiar but delicate situation between the posts. With injuries shaping selection choices, Arne Slot’s side must once again adapt, while Palace arrive with a relatively stable squad and a timely boost in midfield.

Goalkeeper dilemma for Liverpool

The biggest talking point in Liverpool team news surrounds the goalkeeping position. Alisson Becker remains close to a return after missing six matches, but a final decision will be made late. Giorgi Mamardashvili, who has stepped in recently, is now ruled out after being stretchered off in the Merseyside derby win over Everton.

That leaves Freddie Woodman as the likely starter if Alisson is not ready. Slot offered clarity in his pre match update: “Giorgi will definitely not be available for tomorrow and also not for the upcoming weeks. Ali is close to a return to play, so let’s see if tomorrow comes too early, yes or no.

“And that leaves, of course, Freddie Woodman as an option, who is definitely fit.

“We signed an experienced third goalkeeper for a reason. As well as being a good ’keeper, he’s a very good man and well-liked in the dressing room, which is important in that role. He’s ready for it.”

There is also a place on the bench for young Armin Pecsi, underlining how stretched Liverpool are in that department.

Defensive boost and midfield concerns

There is better news further up the pitch. Joe Gomez returns to the squad after missing the Everton match, providing much needed depth in defence. Slot acknowledged the importance of his availability: “He is back in the squad, so that’s really positive because last week I only had two centre-backs that were playing and no-one on the bench so it’s really helpful that Joe is back.”

However, Wataru Endo remains unavailable as he continues his recovery. Slot explained: “Wata is starting to go outside.

“Not with the team yet, but [he is] starting to do exercises outside on the pitch with the rehab team so he is making steps, but he will not be available next week for [Manchester] United or the week after.

“But we are hoping and expecting him to be back in the end of the season.”

Long term absentees Stefan Bajcetic, Conor Bradley, Hugo Ekitike and Giovanni Leoni continue to limit options.

X: @LFC

Crystal Palace boosted by key return

Crystal Palace approach the fixture with fewer disruptions. Adam Wharton is back in contention after missing the draw with West Ham, a significant lift for Oliver Glasner’s midfield options.

Glasner confirmed: “Adam is good. He is fit and trained yesterday without any issues so he’ll be available for Liverpool.

“All the others are the same so we’ve got no new injury concerns, which is good news.

“Of course, two injuries we still have are Eddie Nketiah and Evann Guessand so they will miss this game.”

There remains a slight doubt over Nathaniel Clyne’s availability following illness, with Glasner adding: “One question mark we have is Nathaniel Clyne.

“He was ill yesterday, but then was better in the evening. He’s being assessed at the moment. But hopefully he is available.”