Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has provided a fresh injury update ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Reds head to the Amex Stadium looking to bounce back to winning ways in the league after a frustrating 1-1 draw against relegation-threatened Tottenham Hotspur in their last league outing.
However, they have been dealt a major setback with Mohamed Salah ruled out of their weekend clash against the Seagulls.
The Egyptian forward picked up the injury during Liverpool’s emphatic 4-0 win over Galatasaray in the Champions League, which saw them overturn a first-leg deficit to book their place in the quarter-finals of the competition.
Salah was substituted late in the game, shortly after scoring Liverpool’s fourth and was replaced by Cody Gakpo. The 33-year-old is now set to miss a match through injury for the ninth time since arriving at the club in 2017.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Slot confirmed the absence of the talisman.
“Indeed, [it’s] unusual. As a result of that I think you can expect the outcome. So, [he’s] not available for tomorrow”, the Liverpool boss stated.
“The good thing for Liverpool and for us is that we go to an international break. The bad thing for Egypt is that he can’t go there.”
Liverpool are also sweating on the fitness of Joe Gomez ahead of the crucial encounter. The England defender, who picked up a knock against Spurs last weekend and was only fit enough for the bench in midweek, remains a doubt.
However, he could be included in the squad and potentially feature off the bench if he passes a late fitness test.
“He might be available tomorrow, but definitely not to start.”
Liverpool have won five of their last six meetings with Brighton and will be eager to get back to winning ways in the league as they continue their push for a Champions League spot.
