Team News as Liverpool Prepare for West Ham Clash

Liverpool’s preparations for their Premier League trip to West Ham have taken a notable turn following updates from Arne Slot, who addressed several key fitness concerns during his pre-match media duties. With both clubs entering a crucial stretch of the season, clarity around availability and selection has taken on heightened significance.

Key Updates on Liverpool Squad Fitness

Slot confirmed that Florian Wirtz is approaching the end of his rehabilitation programme, outlining that the midfielder is scheduled for his final recovery session on Friday. Should that pass without incident, he is expected to rejoin full training on Saturday. Liverpool will monitor his response closely, but there is growing confidence that his issue is not long-term.

Attention also turned to another senior figure within the squad, with Slot reaffirming that the medical team do not anticipate major complications. However, with fixtures arriving at pace, Liverpool intend to assess him up to matchday to avoid unnecessary risks.

Defensive Decisions as Options Tighten

In goal, Brazil’s number one is likely to return after missing recent action, with strong indications that he will replace Giorgi Mamardashvili. The back line may also see a single adjustment: Andy Robertson is pushing to regain his starting role on the left, potentially coming in for Milos Kerkez as Liverpool look for greater stability in wide areas.

Curtis Jones could once again find himself operating at right-back, a role he has filled with discipline in recent weeks. Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley remain sidelined, while Joe Gomez has fallen down the pecking order. This combination of factors leaves Jones as a reliable interim solution as Liverpool attempt to maintain defensive cohesion.

Midfield and Forward Selections Likely to Remain Steady

Liverpool’s midfield selections appear relatively settled due to limited alternatives. Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch are expected to anchor the centre of the pitch, with both players eager to rebound from the subdued performance in midweek. Their control and circulation will be central to Liverpool’s plan against a West Ham side that has impressed under Graham Potter this season.

Mohamed Salah is also in line to start once again as Liverpool push for greater fluidity in the final third. Alongside him, Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo are poised to retain their attacking midfield positions, forming the trio tasked with supplying Liverpool’s new-look forward line.

Up front, Alexander Isak is likely to lead the attack as he continues his search for a first league goal since arriving as the club’s record signing. With Hugo Ekitike facing late fitness checks, Isak’s inclusion looks increasingly assured.

Predicted Liverpool XI vs West Ham

Alisson; Jones, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Isak

Injured: Frimpong, Leoni, Bradley
Doubts: Wirtz, Ekitike

Kick-off: 2.05pm GMT, Sunday 30 November 2025
Venue: London Stadium
Broadcast: Sky Sports