Liverpool dealt fresh injury concern ahead of crucial Spurs showdown
Liverpool’s preparations for their upcoming Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur have been disrupted by a significant injury setback, with one of the club’s most important first-team players now facing a race against time to be declared fit.
According to respected Merseyside journalist James Pearce, Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai is currently a major doubt for the trip to North London after sustaining an injury in training, while another unnamed first-team player is also being closely monitored following a separate issue. The double blow has heightened concerns within the club’s medical department as Arne Slot looks to navigate a demanding fixture schedule.
With Tottenham also pushing for European qualification and Liverpool fighting to maintain momentum at the top end of the table, the timing of the setback could hardly be worse.
No guarantee of fitness as medical team adopts cautious approach
Sources close to the club indicate there is no certainty that Szoboszlai will be available for selection when Liverpool face Spurs. The Hungary international will continue to undergo daily assessments, with a final decision on his availability expected to be made late on Friday.
Liverpool’s medical staff are reportedly unwilling to take any risks, particularly given Szoboszlai’s recent workload and importance to Slot’s high-intensity system. The midfielder has been a key figure in Liverpool’s pressing structure, ball progression, and attacking transitions this season.
While the injury is not believed to be long-term at this stage, the club’s priority remains avoiding any aggravation that could sideline the player for a prolonged period.
Why Szoboszlai’s absence would be a huge blow
Since Arne Slot’s arrival, Szoboszlai has evolved into one of Liverpool’s most influential midfielders. His energy, vertical passing, and ability to arrive late in the box have made him a crucial component of Slot’s tactical blueprint.
Statistically, the 23-year-old ranks among Liverpool’s top performers this season for progressive carries, chances created from open play, and defensive recoveries in the final third. Beyond numbers, his leadership and intensity have helped set the tempo in high-stakes matches.
Should he miss the Tottenham fixture, Liverpool would be without a player who often acts as the connective tissue between midfield and attack — a role that becomes even more vital against a Spurs side known for their aggressive pressing and quick transitions.
Who could replace him if ruled out?
If Szoboszlai fails to recover in time, Slot does have options, though none offer a like-for-like replacement.
Alexis Mac Allister could be pushed into a more advanced role, while Curtis Jones remains a trusted alternative capable of controlling possession and linking play. There is also the possibility of Ryan Gravenberch being handed increased responsibility, particularly if Liverpool opt for a more physical midfield battle.
However, any reshuffle risks disrupting the balance Liverpool have built in recent weeks, especially against a Tottenham side that thrives on exploiting positional disorganisation.
Tottenham clash carries major significance
The meeting with Spurs is shaping up to be one of Liverpool’s most important league fixtures of the season. Tottenham, under Ange Postecoglou, remain one of the division’s most aggressive attacking sides, capable of punishing even minor lapses in concentration.
Liverpool’s recent defensive solidity and midfield control have been key to their strong run of results, and any weakening of that structure could tilt the balance in what is expected to be a high-tempo encounter.
Slot will be keen to avoid a scenario where fatigue and injuries combine to derail momentum at a critical stage of the campaign.
Injury concerns highlight growing squad strain
This latest setback also underlines a broader issue Liverpool are facing — the cumulative impact of an intense schedule across domestic and European competitions.
With AFCON absences, fixture congestion, and limited recovery windows, Liverpool’s squad depth is being tested. Slot has already spoken publicly about the need for careful rotation and workload management, particularly for players who are central to his pressing system.
January’s transfer window could yet play a role in easing the strain, but for now, Liverpool must rely on internal solutions.
Final decision expected soon
As things stand, Szoboszlai remains a doubt rather than a confirmed absentee, but optimism within the club is described as cautious rather than confident. The coming days will be decisive.
Liverpool fans will be anxiously awaiting updates, knowing just how pivotal the midfielder could be in a match that may have significant implications for the Premier League title race and Champions League qualification.
One thing is clear: Liverpool cannot afford many more setbacks at this stage of the season.