Liverpool Faces Injury Setbacks Ahead of Nottingham Forest Match

Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, has announced that the team will be without Florian Wirtz and Conor Bradley for their upcoming match against Nottingham Forest.

International Duties Cause Injury Concerns

Both players were active during the international break, with Wirtz representing Germany and Bradley playing for Northern Ireland as they aimed to secure their spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Germany achieved their goal, winning their group with an impressive 6-0 victory over Slovakia, while Northern Ireland moved into the playoffs, where they will face Italy, hoping to progress further against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.

However, these international successes have a downside for Liverpool as they seek stability following a recent mix of results that include a strong showing against Aston Villa and Real Madrid, offset by a heavy defeat at the hands of Manchester City.

Slot addressed the media on Friday, highlighting injury challenges that the team is currently facing, as both Wirtz and Bradley are dealing with muscular issues. He mentioned, “We do have some issues after the international break unfortunately.” He further noted his doubts about Bradley’s availability in the next three weeks, saying, “I don’t expect Conor to be part of the upcoming 22 days; maybe at the end, but not in the next 22 days unless something miraculous happens, which I don’t expect.”

As for Wirtz, Slot indicated that he might return after the match against Nottingham Forest, contingent on his recovery timeline. Additionally, Jeremie is also ruled out for a similar duration. Slot expressed curiosity about whom fans might want to see fill the right-back position.

Szoboszlai to Step Into the Right-Back Role

With Joe Gomez struggling with fitness, the discussion has turned to possibly utilizing Dominik Szoboszlai in a right-back position. Szoboszlai has made a significant impact this season, excelling in multiple roles. Slot has acknowledged that the current situation might necessitate Szoboszlai taking on responsibilities in positions he’s less familiar with.

“He [Szoboszlai] is doing so well in every position. That’s true,” Slot remarked. He noted that Szoboszlai has performed excellently both as a full-back and in midfield, while also recognizing Curtis Jones’ prior experience in the role. Gomez’s limited play this year raises concerns, as Slot pointed out Gomez has only completed two full matches in 2025.

“Given we want to maintain Gomez’s availability, it might be risky to have him play seven times in 22 days. He also missed training yesterday but is expected to participate today,” Slot added. While the situation is challenging, he emphasized that the squad still has other capable players who can step up, even if it means playing in unfamiliar positions.

With Liverpool’s recent record showing three wins and seven losses in their last ten games, it’s crucial for them to regain form quickly to keep pace with Premier League leaders Arsenal and to secure a top-eight spot in the Champions League group stage.

Upcoming Fixtures Present Opportunities

Liverpool’s next matchups against Nottingham Forest, West Ham United, Sunderland, and Leeds United appear favorable on paper. Additionally, they are expected to be favorites in their European clash against PSV Eindhoven. However, their upcoming trip to San Siro to face Inter Milan on December 9 presents a significant challenge that will test the squad’s progress.