Reds face fitness concerns before crucial Premier League fixture
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has given a comprehensive update on his squad’s fitness ahead of their Premier League trip to Brentford on Saturday, revealing that several key players remain doubtful or unavailable due to injuries.
The Reds, who are looking to maintain their strong start to the season, will have to navigate a tricky away fixture while managing a growing list of absentees in key positions.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference at the AXA Training Centre, Slot confirmed that Alexander Isak, Jeremie Frimpong, Alisson Becker, and Ryan Gravenberch are all battling various fitness issues as the team prepares for the weekend’s encounter.
Alexander Isak facing late fitness test
One of the major talking points from the press conference was the fitness of Alexander Isak, who picked up a groin problem during Liverpool’s midweek fixture. Slot noted that while the Swedish forward’s condition is not serious, he remains a doubt for the Brentford game.
“Alexander is not too bad,” Slot said. “He is a question mark for the weekend, so we will see where he is.”
Isak, who has been one of Liverpool’s standout performers this season, has scored several crucial goals and provided valuable attacking depth since joining the club. His potential absence could deal a blow to Liverpool’s forward line, especially against a physically resilient Brentford side known for their high-pressing and counter-attacking play.
Should Isak be unavailable, Slot could turn to Darwin Núñez or Cody Gakpo to lead the line, with Mohamed Salah and Luis Díaz expected to provide width in attack.
Jeremie Frimpong ruled out with hamstring injury
Slot also delivered a more concerning update on Jeremie Frimpong, who will be sidelined for an extended period after suffering a hamstring injury. The Dutch full-back, who joined Liverpool in the summer transfer window, has impressed with his pace and attacking contributions from the right flank.
“Jeremie Frimpong is not in a good place,” Slot admitted. “He won’t play today, tomorrow, or next week. It’s a hamstring injury, so that is going to take a while.”
Frimpong’s absence leaves Liverpool short of options at right-back, with Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez likely to fill in during his recovery. The injury also means Frimpong could miss several key fixtures in the coming weeks, including league matches and European commitments.
Alisson Becker still unavailable
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Alisson Becker remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from a muscle injury sustained earlier this month. The Brazilian international has missed several games already, with Caoimhín Kelleher deputising between the posts.
Slot praised Kelleher’s performances but acknowledged that Alisson’s leadership and experience are difficult to replace.
“Alisson is still working his way back,” the Liverpool boss said. “He’s making progress but not quite ready to return. We want to make sure he’s 100 percent before he plays again.”
Alisson’s absence has highlighted Liverpool’s depth in goalkeeping options, though fans will be eager to see their first-choice shot-stopper return as soon as possible.
Ryan Gravenberch to undergo late fitness test
Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch is another name on the injury list, with the Dutchman facing a late fitness assessment ahead of Saturday’s clash. Gravenberch, who has been a dynamic presence in Liverpool’s midfield this season, has been managing a minor knock but could still feature if he passes a late test.
Slot expressed optimism that the former Bayern Munich player might recover in time, saying:
“Ryan has been training separately and we’ll make a late call on him. He’s close, but we don’t want to take any unnecessary risks.”
If Gravenberch is ruled out, Liverpool may rely on Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Curtis Jones to control the midfield battle against Brentford’s energetic setup.
Focus turns to maintaining momentum
Despite the injury concerns, Arne Slot remains confident in his squad’s ability to deliver a strong performance. The Reds have enjoyed a solid run of form in recent weeks and will aim to continue their momentum against a Brentford team that has proven difficult to beat at home.
Slot emphasized the importance of squad depth and adaptability, praising his players for their professionalism and work ethic amid a busy fixture schedule.
“We’ve had some setbacks with injuries, but that’s part of football,” he said. “The most important thing is that whoever plays gives everything for the team. We have a strong squad and full belief in our players.”
Liverpool’s current injury list
As of Friday, Liverpool’s confirmed absentees and doubts for the Brentford match include:
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Jeremie Frimpong – hamstring injury (ruled out)
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Alisson Becker – muscle injury (ruled out)
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Alexander Isak – groin problem (doubtful)
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Ryan Gravenberch – minor knock (late fitness test)
Looking ahead
Liverpool will be hoping to maintain their place near the top of the Premier League table, with fans eager for positive news from the treatment room. A win at Brentford could help strengthen their title credentials as the season approaches its halfway mark.
Arne Slot’s men will then shift focus to their upcoming European fixture next week, where squad rotation could again play a key role in managing player fitness and performance levels.
