Jeremie Frimpong is making progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury and has been pictured back in Liverpool training, but Arne Slot faces a fresh challenge with another player being sidelined
Jeremie Frimpong receives treatment on the pitch
Jeremie Frimpong has been side-lined with hamstring issues(Image: Ralf Ibing - firo sportphoto, Getty Images)
View 3 Images
Jeremie Frimpong is accelerating his comeback from a hamstring setback, with the Liverpool ace eager to build momentum following his summer switch to Anfield. The full-back has endured a frustrating opening period with the Reds after his £29.5m move from Bayer Leverkusen.
With just nine outings under his belt this season, including just a solitary Premier League start, there's optimism that his return could see him nail down that right-back berth. The 24-year-old's double hamstring setbacks have left the position up for grabs, with Dominik Szoboszlai, Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez all potentially vying for the spot.
Further defensive reshuffles could be on the cards, though there's encouraging news as Frimpong was snapped back in Liverpool training, taking his first steps on the turf once again. An Instagram update from Liverpool revealed the star is intensifying his rehabilitation programme as he targets a comeback within the coming weeks.
Arne Slot faces ongoing headaches at right-back, however, as he awaits Frimpong's availability whilst dealing with another fitness concern. The Liverpool manager revealed that Bradley faces a stint on the treatment table after suffering a muscle problem while on international duty.
Slot explained during his pre-match briefing ahead of the Nottingham Forest clash: "I don't expect Conor to be part of the upcoming 22 days. Maybe in the end, but not in the 22 days unless something like a miracle happens, which I don't expect."
Slot also revealed that Frimpong is also set for a similar spell on the side-lines. He added: "Jeremie is out just as long. He's not probably going to be available in the upcoming two or three weeks as well. It's going to be interesting who all of you want to see as a right full-back."
This predicament has forced the manager to explore alternative options in the position. Szoboszlai has emerged as a potential choice if Liverpool require creativity and passing range from that side of his defence, although his midfield performances have added balance to a heavy attack.
Arne Slot looks on
Arne Slot has some decisions to make(Image: Michael Regan, Getty Images)
View 3 Images
For defensive solidity, Gomez could be Slot's go-to option to bolster a backline that has been prone to conceding goals this season. Slot added: "He [Szoboszlai] is doing so well in every position. That's true. He's played really well as a full-back and played really well as a midfielder.
"Curtis Jones played there last season. Joe Gomez can play there but Joe Gomez has played, I think if I'm correct, two times 90 minutes throughout the whole 2025 year. So, if we want to keep him available longer it's maybe a bit of a risk to play him seven times in 22 days.
Conor Bradley applauds
Conor Bradley has also picked up an injury(Image: Marc Atkins, Getty Images)
View 3 Images
"He missed out on a training session yesterday by the way as well but we are expecting him to train today. [It's] challenging but the good thing is we have still enough good players available and maybe one of them or two of them have to play in positions they usually don't do. That's what we have to accept."
It's a new headache for Liverpool to navigate as they aim to get back on track following the international break, but once Frimpong and Bradley are fit again in the coming weeks, the Reds should be well-equipped for the hectic Christmas fixture list.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Content Image
Content Image