Liverpool’s training session on Tuesday had only a few players missing, and we’ve now got confirmation on the referee for this weekend’s highly anticipated game against Man City.
Main Liverpool Update
The Reds are gearing up for a crucial encounter at Aston Villa this Wednesday. A win here would allow them to extend their lead to a comfortable 10 points clear of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table.
However, there’s a setback for Liverpool as Cody Gakpo will have to sit this one out. He’s been dealing with an ankle injury that he sustained during the clash with Everton, and it seems it’s still bothering him. Also missing from training were Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton, both recovering from longer-term injuries involving their hamstring and shoulder, respectively.
Arne Slot, however, has expressed hope for Gomez’s return without needing surgery, suggesting that his season is far from over. Meanwhile, Curtis Jones returned to training with his fellow teammates and could be eyeing a spot in the starting lineup at Villa after missing out on the last match due to a suspension.
Tuesday’s Training Lineup
Goalkeepers: Alisson, Kelleher, Jaros
Defenders: Van Dijk, Quansah, Konate, Alexander-Arnold, Bradley, Robertson, Tsimikas
Midfielders: Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Jones, Elliott, Endo, McConnell, Nyoni
Forwards: Salah, Diaz, Nunez, Jota, Chiesa
Liverpool FC Headlines
Anthony Taylor, born in Manchester, will be officiating Sunday’s match between Liverpool and City at the Etihad Stadium, with Stuart Attwell handling VAR duties.
Addressing concerns about Liverpool potentially feeling the pressure in their title race, Slot confidently dismissed these claims, asserting that his players have enough experience to withstand such challenges.
Insights from This Is Anfield
Joanna Durkan has shared some potential starting lineup theories for Liverpool’s match tomorrow, speculating that we might see Curtis Jones starting in midfield. Despite his crucial role, Dominik Szoboszlai’s playtime needs to be carefully managed. With Cody Gakpo still unavailable and Jota unlikely to play in quick succession, Darwin Nunez could well start, allowing Luis Diaz to remain effective out on the left wing.
News from Around the Football World
Aston Villa might have up to seven players missing for their game against Liverpool. Decisions on the fitness of several players, including English international Ezri Konsa, are due on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford of Man United is drawing attention. On loan, he aims to notch up his eighth goal against Liverpool. His presence could pose a real threat.
For those seeking more football action tonight, the Champions League playoff second legs will feature, with highlights including Celtic’s visit to Bayern Munich.
Liverpool FC: A Look Back
Rewinding to this day in 2006, Liverpool secured a historic 1-0 FA Cup fifth-round victory over Manchester United at Anfield, courtesy of a Peter Crouch header. This win was particularly meaningful as it marked their first triumph over United in the competition in 85 years. That season, Rafa Benitez’s side marched on to claim the FA Cup title, overcoming Birmingham and Chelsea in later rounds, and ended with a dramatic victory over West Ham in the final, where Steven Gerrard was instrumental in sealing their success.
