Liverpool Face Chelsea Test Amid Injury Concerns
Liverpool’s momentum under Arne Slot has been checked in recent weeks. Defeats to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray have left questions hanging in the air before a tough trip to Stamford Bridge. The sight of both Alisson Becker and Hugo Ekitike leaving the midweek clash in Istanbul with injuries only deepens the sense of unease.
Lewis Steele, speaking with Dave Davis for Anfield Index, summed up the mood clearly: “Those two are the two people that come out of this week with credit because without Ekitike at Palace, Liverpool looked terrible and without Alisson they would’ve lost both of the games by bigger scores.” It is a fair assessment. Without the Brazilian’s world-class reflexes and the French forward’s energy, the team looked flat and fragile.
Alisson’s Absence a Major Blow
Few goalkeepers in world football match Alisson’s consistency. His ability to turn defeats into draws and draws into victories has underpinned Liverpool’s success for years. Steele was forthright on his situation: “Alisson is probably out for a few weeks I would say and potentially even more. We’re not sure yet as he has scans today.”
The news that he has been omitted from Brazil’s latest squad suggests the injury is more than a minor knock. Supporters will be anxious, as the stability of Slot’s defence has often relied on the calm presence of their number one.
Yet, as Steele pointed out, Liverpool planned for this possibility in the summer. “But this is exactly why they signed Giorgi Mamardashvili, so let’s see what he can do.” The Georgian has shown promise in training and cup appearances, but the Premier League away at Chelsea is a different challenge. As Steele added, “Chelsea will be rubbing their hands together and thinking that they can have a go at this new keeper.”
Ekitike Fitness Still in Doubt
Hugo Ekitike has quickly become a key figure in Slot’s frontline. His movement and link-up play have offered Liverpool a different dynamic. Steele’s insight highlights the uncertainty: “Ekitike is hopeful that he can be back for Saturday because he seems to think that it was just a bit of cramp.”
Even so, there is no guarantee. “But it could easily be that he has to sit out of this game,” Steele admitted. Should the Frenchman miss out, Liverpool will need to find attacking fluency without him, something that looked absent against Palace.
Stamford Bridge Showdown
Saturday’s meeting with Chelsea now carries added intrigue. Slot’s side, Premier League champions in his debut season, need a response to recent setbacks. Mamardashvili may be thrust into the spotlight, while the forward line will hope for Ekitike’s recovery.
There is belief that this Liverpool team can overcome adversity, yet the coming week will be a defining test. As Steele noted: “Without Alisson they would’ve lost both of the games by bigger scores.” His words will echo in the minds of supporters as the Reds step into a pivotal clash.
