Joe Gomez will make a late return to full training on the eve of Liverpool’s trip to Sunderland, but Arne Slot is still likely to start a midfielder at right-back.
Gomez has been out since suffering a blow to the hip in the 3-2 loss to Bournemouth on January 24, missing the last three games.
But after initial doubts over his involvement in Wednesday’s clash at Sunderland, Slot revealed in his pre-match press conference that the 28-year-old was due back in training.
Provided Gomez comes through Tuesday’s session at the AXA Training Centre he can be expected to take a place in the matchday squad.
However as Slot spoke to reporters he hinted that it was more likely that one of Wataru Endo or Curtis Jones fills in at right-back.
“Joe has not trained with us yet. I’m expecting him to train with us today for the first time,” he said.
“And indeed if Joe’s not ready to start then we’re missing four players who have played in that position.
“But Curtis and Wata also played in that position this year, so we’ve had six different right-backs this season.”
LEEDS, ENGLAND - Saturday, December 6, 2025: Liverpool's Curtis Jones applauds the travelling supporters after the FA Premier League match between Leeds United FC and Liverpool FC at Elland Road. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
The obvious candidate is Jones, who started as a right-back in the 4-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven in November and most recently filled in as a left-back in the closing stages of Sunday’s 2-1 loss to Man City.
But Endo has strong credentials in the position, not least having impressed in the 6-0 win over Qarabag in the Champions League last month and played in the role 15 times during his development in Japan with Urawa Red Diamonds.
Slot has already ruled Calvin Ramsay out of starting contention, and with Gomez only returning to training on Tuesday after a fortnight out it appears a straight battle between two midfielders.
Much will depend on the tactical demands of the game, with Endo clearly the more natural defender but Jones more comfortable in possession and in the final third.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Monday, December 8, 2025: Liverpool's Joe Gomez during a training session at the AXA Training Centre ahead of the UEFA Champions League match between FC Internazionale Milano and Liverpool FC. (Photo by Jessica Hornby/Propaganda)
Gomez’s return to fitness is a major positive either way, as it cannot be overlooked that Liverpool are still short at centre-back following injury to Giovanni Leoni and, to a lesser extent, youngster Wellity Lucky.
Another academy player, Amara Nallo, is also available for the trip to Sunderland despite being sent off in a 1-1 draw with Southampton U21s on Sunday.
Nallo will be suspended for the U21s’ next game but red cards do not carry over into senior football.
The Big Debate
Jones or Endo: Who should start at right-back?
With Joe Gomez only just returning to training, Arne Slot looks set to deploy a midfielder in defence against Sunderland. Curtis Jones offers more quality on the ball and attacking threat, but Wataru Endo provides the defensive stability and experience in the role from his time in Japan.
Join the debate: Who is the better tactical fit for the trip to the Stadium of Light? Let us know below!