Liverpool suffer a defensive setback as Jeremie Frimpong sustains a muscle injury in their dominant Champions League victory.
Arne Slot confirmed Jeremie Frimpong faces a spell on the sidelines after suffering a muscle injury during Liverpool's 6-0 Champions League win over Qarabag. The right-back limped off just minutes into the match at Anfield on Wednesday. This development leaves the Reds short of options at the back.
Frimpong's absence comes at a challenging time for Liverpool, who sit sixth in the Premier League with 36 points after 23 matches. The team is defending their title from last season but has been hampered by injuries. Maintaining momentum is crucial as they aim to climb the table.
The 25-year-old Dutch international joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen for £29 million in the summer. He has made 19 appearances this season, scoring two goals and providing one assist. His dynamic play has been key to the Reds' attacking transitions from defense.
Slot addressed the injury post-match, noting it stems from player overload. The manager remains cautious about the timeline for Frimpong's return.
"It's a muscle injury, but I don't know how long that is going to be," said Slot. "It's a muscle so it's not a knee injury and a muscle usually has to do with overloading a player."
Conor Bradley is out for the season with a knee injury, while Joe Gomez is doubtful for upcoming games. Ibrahima Konate returns from compassionate leave, offering some relief. Curtis Jones is also back after illness.
Liverpool will not rush into the January transfer market despite the crisis. Slot emphasized making smart, long-term decisions rather than short-term fixes.
"We as a club always make decisions we at least think are smart decisions," Slot explained. "We not only look at the short term, we look at the long term."
The Reds host Newcastle United on Saturday before facing Manchester City on February 8. These fixtures will test their depleted squad depth. Sunderland awaits on February 11 in the league.
