Liverpool have been handed a timely injury boost ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur, with positive news emerging regarding Dominik Szoboszlai’s fitness. The Hungary international is now pushing to be available after scans revealed no serious damage to his ankle, offering a lift at a critical point in the season.
It has been a challenging campaign so far for Arne Slot’s side. Despite guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title last season, the Dutchman has found himself under growing pressure as inconsistent league form has left the Reds seventh in the table. They sit two points adrift of the top four and already trail leaders Arsenal by 10 points, while recent performances in the Champions League have also raised concerns.
With the Egypt international currently away at the Africa Cup of Nations, speculation continues to swirl over whether he will return in January or seek a move elsewhere. All of this has heightened the importance of Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures, starting with Saturday’s trip to north London.
Szoboszlai scan delivers encouragement
One player who could play a vital role against Tottenham is Szoboszlai, who was forced off with an ankle problem during the recent match against Brighton. According to The Athletic, the midfielder has since undergone a scan that showed no significant damage, leaving Liverpool hopeful he can return sooner rather than later.
The report states that Szoboszlai has responded well to treatment and remains in contention for the Tottenham game, although the final decision will depend on how he progresses in the coming days. His energy, pressing and ability to drive forward from midfield have been sorely missed during his absence, making his potential return particularly significant.
Slot admitted after the Brighton match that his initial concern was high, but he left the door open for optimism.
“It didn’t look great when I just saw him,” the Liverpool boss said. “But he has unbelievable mentality, so let’s hope for the best.”
Gomez likely to miss out
While Szoboszlai’s situation appears encouraging, the outlook is less positive for Joe Gomez. The defender also suffered an injury in the Brighton game and is expected to miss the Tottenham clash as Liverpool take a cautious approach.
Slot suggested Gomez’s problem was muscle-related, which immediately raised red flags.
“If I have a player who goes off with a muscle injury like Joe, that’s normally not a positive thing,” he explained. “I would not expect him to be in the squad next week [against Tottenham], but sometimes you get a positive surprise.”
Even if Gomez avoids a lengthy layoff, the short turnaround makes his involvement this weekend unlikely.
Crucial week for Slot and Liverpool
With pressure mounting on Slot, the visit to Tottenham takes on added importance. A positive result could help stabilise Liverpool’s league position and ease some of the growing scrutiny around performances and squad harmony.
The possible return of Szoboszlai would be a welcome boost as Liverpool look to regain momentum during a congested festive schedule. However, Slot must weigh the risks carefully, particularly given the midfielder’s importance over the longer term.
Key Insights
- Szoboszlai scan shows no serious ankle damage
- Liverpool hopeful midfielder could return vs Tottenham
- Joe Gomez expected to miss the game with a muscle issue
- Slot under pressure as Liverpool sit seventh in the league
- Tottenham clash seen as pivotal moment in Liverpool’s season
What’s Next?
Liverpool travel to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday looking to reignite their Premier League campaign. All eyes will be on Szoboszlai’s fitness as Slot prepares his team for a fixture that could shape the direction of their season.
👉 Liverpool fans — should Slot risk Szoboszlai if he’s close to fit, or protect him for the busy festive period?
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