Liverpool travel to Arsenal on Thursday night with both Premier League sides set to be without several key players due to injury and other factors.
Hugo Ekitike walks on to the pitch.
Hugo Ekitike is once again an injury doubt for Liverpool.
While the festive fixture period has now concluded, it doesn't mean the schedule becomes any less hectic for either or Arsenal. The two sides are poised for their midweek Premier League clash, with the Gunners welcoming the Reds to the Emirates Stadium for what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
came out on top against Mikel Arteta in their last meeting, when a late free-kick goal from secured all three points for the champions. Since then, both teams have embarked on very different paths with new challenges awaiting them in the second half of the season.
Liverpool suffered a dip in form following that victory over the Gunners, but have since rallied to put themselves back in the race for the top-four. Arsenal, on the other hand, are the clear favourites to clinch the Premier League title, having asserted their dominance at the summit of the table with an impressive run of form.
This sets the stage for a fascinating showdown between the reigning champions and the potential successors, presenting another hurdle for both teams to overcome. Injuries and absences could significantly influence the outcome of the match in north London so - with all that in mind - here's our in-depth look at eight players who might be side-lined;
Hugo Ekitike
Hugo Ekitike of Liverpool runs off the ball during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Leeds United
Hugo Ekitike of Liverpool runs off the ball during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Leeds United
2. Mohamed Salah celebrates with his team mates after scoring the 3rd goal for Egypt during the match between Egypt vs Benin
Mohamed Salah celebrates with his team mates after scoring the 3rd goal for Egypt during the match between Egypt vs Benin
3. Alexander Isak of Liverpool leaves the game injured during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool
Alexander Isak of Liverpool leaves the game injured during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool
4. Liverpool have been without Wataru Endo since early December due to an injury. Before the Fulham match, Slot revealed he hasn't been back in training yet, but he could close in on a return to action soon.
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