Arne Slot confirms double Liverpool injury blow ahead of Nottingham Forest clash | OneFootball

Injuries Shape Liverpool Plans for Nottingham Forest Clash

Liverpool return from the international break facing fresh complications, with manager Arne Slot confirming that Conor Bradley and Florian Wirtz will miss the meeting with Nottingham Forest and several fixtures beyond. The timing could hardly be worse, arriving just as the squad had begun to regain its rhythm after a demanding early season and a successful Premier League title defence under Slot.

International windows often bring disruption, though Liverpool would have hoped for a smoother reintegration. Instead, the club find themselves dealing with fitness setbacks while preparing for a crammed calendar across the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups.

Selection Challenges for Arne Slot

Speaking at his pre match press conference, Slot did not hide his disappointment at the latest injury update.“We do have some issues after the international break. Conor Bradley is not able to play and Florian Wirtz is unable to play. That’s far from ideal.”

Both players reported muscle injuries after returning from international duty, leaving the manager without key components of his squad for a significant period. Slot added more detail, explaining that the club will be without Bradley for close to three weeks.“I don’t expect Conor to be part of the upcoming 22 days, maybe at the end, unless a miracle happens, which I don’t expect. Florian shouldn’t be that long.”

Their absences are compounded by Jeremie Frimpong already being sidelined with a hamstring problem. With Liverpool now short in defensive options, Slot outlined the need for flexibility.“We have five defenders available for seven games in 22 days, and I don’t see anyone coming back before that.”

Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones and Joe Gomez were all mentioned as possible solutions at right back. Gomez’s workload will be handled cautiously after the defender missed Thursday’s training session and continues to manage his minutes carefully.

Alisson Boost Ahead of Forest Visit

Amid the concerns, Liverpool did receive encouraging news. First choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker is set to return after seven weeks out with a hamstring issue. Slot confirmed that the Brazilian has trained normally since last week and is expected to start at Anfield.“Alisson trained last week and this week, so he will be able to play tomorrow if things work out well again today.”

That stability will be welcome for a side needing to navigate an intense spell, starting with Nottingham Forest who visit looking to disrupt Liverpool’s title push for a second consecutive season.

Squad Depth Tested During Key Run

Andy Robertson is also expected to rejoin the group after missing training for private reasons, offering another experienced option as Liverpool manage a heavy workload. With Forest arriving at a moment when squad depth is stretched, Slot’s ability to adapt could prove decisive. The manager has already shown a knack for balancing injuries and form since taking charge in 2024, and this period represents another examination of that quality as Liverpool aim to maintain momentum across all competitions.