Liverpool head into one of their most demanding away fixtures of the season with selection headaches still lingering — but also with renewed optimism over one of their most influential midfielders.
The Reds travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for a 5.30pm GMT kick-off on Saturday, 20 December 2025, knowing that points in north London could shape the narrative of their festive run. Arne Slot’s side arrive on the back of a controlled 2-0 win over Brighton, yet preparation for Spurs has been complicated by injuries, suspensions and AFCON absences.
Encouragingly for Liverpool, Dominik Szoboszlai remains in contention. The Hungarian midfielder was forced off late against Brighton with an ankle issue, sparking fears he could miss the Tottenham clash. However, Slot’s latest comments suggest the decision may go down to the wire — and that, if fit, Szoboszlai will start.
Arne Slot delivers Szoboszlai fitness update
Speaking at Friday’s pre-match press conference, Slot struck a cautiously optimistic tone over his midfielder’s availability.
“If the player feels comfortable to play and he did all the things he had to do, then he will start. If he fulfils it but doesn’t feel comfortable himself, we will have a discussion. Dom has been a starter for me in the one-and-a-half years I am here now and for the performances he’s brought in, he would be a starter tomorrow if he is completely fit.” — Arne Slot
Szoboszlai’s status could have a knock-on effect further forward. If he passes a late fitness test, Slot is expected to keep faith with the same attacking structure that worked against Brighton — potentially handing Hugo Ekitike another start ahead of Alexander Isak.
Liverpool team news vs Tottenham
Liverpool will be without five senior players for the trip to Spurs, forcing Slot into at least one enforced change.
At the back, Joe Gomez has been ruled out after suffering a muscular injury against Brighton. Conor Bradley is expected to slot back in at right-back following his one-match suspension, despite Jeremie Frimpong returning to the matchday squad after nearly two months out with a hamstring issue.
Further forward, Cody Gakpo remains sidelined, while Mohamed Salah is unavailable after joining up with Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations — a significant absence given his record against Tottenham.
Liverpool injury and availability list
- Injured: Cody Gakpo, Leoni, Wataru Endo, Joe Gomez
- Doubtful: Dominik Szoboszlai
- Unavailable: Mohamed Salah (AFCON)
Predicted Liverpool XI vs Tottenham
If Szoboszlai is passed fit, Slot is likely to prioritise continuity following last weekend’s win.
Predicted XI:
Alisson; Bradley, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Curtis Jones; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Florian Wirtz; Ekitike
Florian Wirtz is expected to continue on the left flank, offering creativity and ball progression in Gakpo’s absence, while Ekitike’s mobility and pressing could again be preferred to Isak’s penalty-box presence.
Our view: balance over brilliance for Slot
In our view, Slot’s selection approach here feels pragmatic rather than bold. Having followed Liverpool closely this season, it is clear the manager values rhythm and structure — particularly away from home against high-tempo opponents like Tottenham.
The loss of Salah removes a proven match-winner, making midfield control even more important. That is why Szoboszlai’s availability looms so large. His energy, ball-carrying and counter-pressing are vital in games where Liverpool may not dominate possession.
Although some fans may push for Frimpong’s immediate return or a more aggressive front line, Slot appears set on stability. Against Spurs’ pace and vertical threat, Liverpool’s best chance may lie in compactness, discipline and picking moments rather than chasing the game early.
Tactical note ahead of kick-off
Tottenham’s wide overloads and quick switches could test Liverpool’s full-backs, particularly with Gomez absent. Bradley’s return helps defensively, but much will depend on how effectively Gravenberch and Jones protect the channels. Expect Liverpool to look for quick transitions into Ekitike and Wirtz rather than prolonged build-up.
Key insights
- Dominik Szoboszlai remains a major doubt but could start if fit.
- Mohamed Salah is unavailable due to AFCON duty.
- Joe Gomez has been ruled out with a muscle injury.
- Conor Bradley is set to return at right-back.
- Hugo Ekitike may keep his place up front.
What’s next?
Liverpool face a pivotal stretch of fixtures over the festive period, and a positive result in north London could inject momentum at a crucial time. Final confirmation on Szoboszlai’s fitness is expected shortly before kick-off.
👉 Reds fans — would you risk Szoboszlai from the start, or keep him back for the festive run?
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