Arne Slot delivers injury updates and warns Liverpool over “no room for mistakes” against Newcastle

Slot has confirmed Jeremie Frimpong will miss “a few weeks” of action after being forced off early against Qarabag in the Champions League, but the Liverpool head coach insists the injury is not as serious as first feared.

Speaking ahead of Saturday night’s Premier League clash with Newcastle at Anfield, the manager provided a mixed fitness update as Liverpool enter a crucial stage of the season.

Frimpong sidelined, Konate and Jones return

Jeremie Frimpong’s early withdrawal in midweek raised concerns, but Arne Slot reassured supporters that the wing-back has avoided a lengthy lay-off.

The better news comes in defence, with Ibrahima Konate set to return after a period of compassionate leave following the death of his father. This will strengthen the depth of the squad in defence. 

Curtis Jones is also back in contention after recovering from illness, giving Arne Slot a welcome boost in midfield.

The manager also stated that Newcastle striker Alexander Isak has yet to return to training following a leg fracture, though the Liverpool boss did not discuss the Swedish striker’s time at his former club and this weekends opponents, Newcastle. 

As in midweek, he also highlighted that Joe Gomez is “not far away” from a return. 

"A bigger challenge" awaits at Anfield

He was clear that Newcastle represent a significant step up and a “bigger challenge” from Qarabag, labelling the game as “crucial” for both sides in the race for a Champions League place.

“There is not a lot of room for mistakes anymore,” he admitted, striking a blunt tone about Liverpool’s position as the season moves into its decisive run-in.

Expanding on that, he referenced moments earlier in the campaign where performances were not matched by results, particularly late goals conceded and missed opportunities to put games to bed.

“The closer you come to the end, the less chance you have to make a mistake,” he said. “We are now in a position where we cannot afford a lot of mistakes anymore.”

Transfer talk

With the January transfer window nearing its close, Arne Slot refused to be drawn into speculation, making it clear that any potential business is handled away from press conferences.

“If we have addressed a player that we think can help us and the figure is possible, then we will do so,” he explained. “But those conversations don’t take place in this room.”

Finally, he also confirmed that nothing is expected to change regarding Harvey Elliott before the deadline, despite his return to action for Aston Villa in the Europa League. 

“It was very pleasing to see him back on the pitch,” Slot said, “but at this moment in time he is an Aston Villa player.”