Arne Slot provides key Liverpool injury update ahead of West Ham clash as Jeremie Frimpong returns but Florian Wirtz misses out
Liverpool welcome struggling West Ham to Anfield on Saturday with mixed injury news after Arne Slot addressed the media on Friday.
There was a significant boost as Jeremie Frimpong returned to training this week. The Dutch winger was pictured back with his teammates during Thursday’s session and is now firmly in contention to feature against the Hammers.
“Jeremie is OK, trained with us and is available,” he said.
Frimpong’s return strengthens Liverpool’s attacking depth at a crucial stage of the campaign, particularly with the schedule beginning to intensify.
However, there was disappointment regarding Florian Wirtz. The German playmaker was forced to withdraw from the starting lineup against Nottingham Forest after suffering a back injury during the warm-up. He was absent from Thursday’s training session and will not be involved this weekend.
“Don’t expect Florian to be [available], which is a disappointment,” Slot admitted. “No [idea how long he is out]… I honestly don’t know. It’s a big accomplishment for him to stay fit for such a long time… but unfortunately he is not available, which is a disappointment for him and for us, because he played really well.”
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There were no concerns over Milos Kerkez, who was substituted after 80 minutes in a recent match.
“He was completely fit,” Slot explained. “I changed my wingers and full-backs for that fresh energy… Milos played an OK game. He is available for tomorrow.”
Attention also turned to Mohamed Salah’s recent dip in league goals. Slot dismissed any concerns, pointing to the high standards the Egyptian has set.
“He set his own standards and they are so, so, so high,” Slot said. “He always scores again.”
The manager stressed that attacking output is a collective responsibility, noting that other forwards have also experienced quieter spells, but highlighted Liverpool’s defensive solidity and recent high-scoring performances in other competitions.
With Frimpong back after weeks without a natural right-back, Liverpool head into Saturday’s clash in strong shape as they look to consolidate their grip on a Champions League place.
