Liverpool are hopeful of having Dominik Szoboszlai available for their huge Premier League meeting with Arsenal at Anfield, with David Lynch suggesting the midfielder could be in contention for Sunday’s fixture.
Speaking to Dave Davis on _Media Matters for Anfield Index_, Lynch discussed Liverpool’s selection options ahead of the clash on 1 November, including the possibility of Szoboszlai returning after his recent absence.
The conversation comes after Liverpool progressed past Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, winning on penalties following a 1-1 draw at Anfield. Attention now turns to Arsenal, with Lynch describing the upcoming contest as a major test of Liverpool’s progress.
Szoboszlai Return Could Give Liverpool a Midfield Boost
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Lynch indicated that he had a feeling Szoboszlai might be available for the Arsenal game, while also mentioning Victor Muñoz as a potential boost to the squad.
He raised the possibility that Liverpool had been managing the midfielder’s recovery with the Arsenal fixture in mind, saying: “Have they been just kind of trying to say after Brentford, okay, let’s get him right for Arsenal?”
That remains speculation rather than confirmation of Liverpool’s plans. Lynch also questioned whether the club would immediately bring Szoboszlai back into the starting line-up if he were fit, given the importance of the match and the decisions facing the coaching staff.
However, the prospect of having him available would give Liverpool another option in midfield for a demanding fixture.
David Lynch Weighs Up Liverpool’s Midfield Selection
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Lynch suggested Szoboszlai’s availability could be particularly significant given his concerns about Ryan Gravenberch’s recent form and the challenge of asking Trey Nyoni to start such a major game.
He said Gravenberch would have to consider the competition emerging from Nyoni, who had impressed during the Carabao Cup win over Chelsea. Yet Lynch also recognised that throwing the young midfielder into a match of Arsenal’s importance would be a big decision.
“If they did have some Szoboszlai there available,” Lynch said, Liverpool would have another option to consider.
The potential return would therefore give Liverpool greater flexibility when deciding how to approach the midfield battle. Szoboszlai alongside Alexis Mac Allister was one combination Lynch discussed as part of a strong possible line-up.
Liverpool’s final selection would depend on fitness and the decisions made before kick-off, with Lynch keen to see how the situation develops.
Photo: IMAGO
Arsenal Clash Offers Liverpool a Major Test
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Lynch described the Arsenal fixture as “massive” and said a victory could represent a significant statement for Liverpool. He also highlighted the opportunity for the team to demonstrate how far they have progressed.
Liverpool had won five consecutive matches at the time of the discussion, and Lynch felt a positive result against Arsenal could strengthen the sense that the team was developing under its manager.
He acknowledged the quality of the opposition, describing Arsenal as a very good side and suggesting the match could go either way. Playing at Anfield, however, offered Liverpool an opportunity to make the most of the home atmosphere.
Lynch also expressed excitement about the prospect of Liverpool selecting a strong team, with the possible return of Szoboszlai adding an important question ahead of Sunday.
There was no confirmation in the discussion that the midfielder would definitely feature. Instead, Lynch’s comments pointed to cautious optimism that he could be ready, leaving Liverpool’s team selection one of the key talking points before the Arsenal clash.