Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool have the chance to secure their Champions League progression on Wednesday when they host Azerbaijani side Qarabag at Anfield. The Reds’ European form has far outshone their domestic results this season.
After an impressive win over Marseille, Liverpool enter the final group-stage matchday in fourth, but automatic qualification to the round of 16 is not guaranteed. A slip-up against Qarabag could see Arne Slot’s side drop out of the top eight and face a play-off.
Morale in the squad is low following a last-minute defeat to AFC Bournemouth over the weekend, giving the visitors hope. Qarabag have been one of the surprises of this season’s Champions League.
They have capitalised on home advantage with wins over Eintracht Frankfurt and Copenhagen, and a draw with Chelsea. Currently 18th in the standings, a defeat at Anfield would put their progression at risk, but they remain confident of reaching the play-offs.
Liverpool face another injury concern after Joe Gomez was forced off against Bournemouth following a collision with Alisson. Providing an update on the centre-back’s injury, Arne Slot said: “Joe got a knock from Ali [Alisson Becker].
“His knee went into… I think it was bone on bone. He was just not able to continue and Ali had quite a swelling in his knee. I don’t know if Joe is going to train in two or three days, that is difficult for me to say, but it was clear he could not go on today.”
Slot has only one senior centre-back available – captain Virgil van Dijk, as Ibrahima Konate is still on leave following his father’s death. Andy Robertson is available after a proposed transfer to Tottenham fell through, but injuries to Giovanni Leoni and Conor Bradley mean a makeshift defence is likely.
Federico Chiesa is doubtful, while Alexander Isak remains sidelined with a leg injury, increasing the workload on Hugo Ekitike, who was on the bench against Bournemouth as Slot manages his minutes.
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