Gravenberch Edges Closer to Return as Liverpool Await Injury Boost
Liverpool could be handed a timely fitness boost ahead of their Premier League clash with Aston Villa this weekend, with midfielder Ryan Gravenberch in contention to make his return from injury. Manager Arne Slot confirmed that the Dutchman is the most likely of the club’s injured players to be available, offering a glimmer of encouragement after a difficult run of results.
Gravenberch Nearing Comeback
Gravenberch’s spell on the sidelines began during Liverpool’s 2–1 defeat to Manchester United on 19 October. The 22-year-old suffered a twisted ankle midway through the second half and was substituted after receiving on-field treatment. Since then, the midfielder has missed key fixtures — including the Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt, the Premier League clash against Brentford, and the Carabao Cup defeat to Crystal Palace.
Slot’s side have felt his absence. While Liverpool comfortably dispatched Frankfurt in Europe, their domestic form has faltered, with back-to-back defeats denting momentum in both league and cup competitions. The return of Gravenberch, whose dynamism and technical quality have been praised since his arrival, could help stabilise the midfield and restore balance ahead of a demanding schedule.
Injury List Continues to Test Depth
Liverpool’s recent injury troubles have presented challenges across multiple positions. Record signing Alexander Isak has been unavailable for the past two fixtures, while Curtis Jones remains a concern after limping off during the win over Brentford. The squad’s depth has been stretched further by the continued absence of Alisson Becker, who sustained a hamstring injury in the Champions League defeat to Galatasaray and has yet to return to full training.
Despite these setbacks, Slot has largely resisted the temptation to make drastic changes, instead urging patience and emphasising long-term fitness over short-term gain. His focus, he insists, remains on ensuring players return fully fit rather than risking aggravation of injuries during a critical phase of the season.
Slot’s Optimism Over Gravenberch
Following the 3–0 loss to Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, Slot provided an update on Liverpool’s injury situation — and particularly on Gravenberch’s recovery progress.
“I think Ryan has a good chance,” Slot said in his post-match press conference. “The other ones are going to be… let’s wait and see tomorrow and Friday. I don’t know about all of them, but I think Ryan has the best chance from all of them.”
Slot’s cautious optimism suggests that Gravenberch may feature, at least in some capacity, when Aston Villa visit Anfield. The Dutchman’s energy, ball-carrying ability and composure under pressure could prove vital as Liverpool aim to get back to winning ways.
Key Period Ahead for Liverpool
With crucial league fixtures approaching and Champions League progression still to secure, the timing of Gravenberch’s potential return could not be more significant. Liverpool’s midfield has looked short of rhythm in recent outings, and Slot will hope the former Bayern Munich man’s availability adds both control and creativity to his system.
If all goes well in training over the next 48 hours, Liverpool supporters could see Gravenberch back in action — a welcome sight as the club look to regain momentum and stability heading into a busy winter schedule.
