Liverpool have been handed encouraging injury news ahead of their crucial Premier League meeting with Arsenal, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Victor Munoz both in contention to return to action this weekend.
Manager Andoni Iraola confirmed that the two players could feature when Liverpool welcome Arsenal to Anfield on Sunday, although he admitted that their availability will depend on how they progress during the final training sessions.
Both players missed Liverpool’s midweek Carabao Cup clash against Chelsea, where the Reds eventually secured their place in the quarter-finals following a penalty shootout victory.
Szoboszlai has been dealing with a recurring hamstring problem and has not played since Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Brentford on October 17. Munoz, meanwhile, has been recovering from a knee injury sustained during the same match, forcing him to miss Liverpool’s last three fixtures.
Providing an update on their fitness, Iraola said both players still have a chance of being involved against Arsenal.
“They have a chance, but I don’t know for sure if they will be involved or not. We still have two days, so I think there is a chance,” the Liverpool manager explained.
Frimpong Faces Another Injury Setback
While Liverpool are hopeful about the possible returns of Szoboszlai and Munoz, there is less positive news concerning Jeremie Frimpong.
The defender is expected to miss the Arsenal encounter after suffering another hamstring injury against Brentford. Frimpong had only been introduced as a substitute before being forced off just seven minutes later.
His latest setback represents another frustrating interruption to his campaign, particularly as Liverpool prepare for one of their biggest fixtures of the season.
Iraola Backs Gravenberch Despite Inconsistent Form
Iraola also discussed Ryan Gravenberch’s performances, insisting that the midfielder continues to have the club’s full support despite experiencing some difficult moments this season.
The Liverpool boss acknowledged that the Dutch international has produced both impressive and disappointing displays but believes there are encouraging signs of improvement.
He made it clear that the club remains confident in Gravenberch’s ability and is committed to helping him reach a more consistent level.
Liverpool Prepare for Crucial Arsenal Test
The upcoming meeting carries significant importance for Liverpool’s Premier League ambitions.
The Reds currently sit fourth in the table, six points behind second-placed Arsenal. A victory at Anfield would provide a valuable opportunity to reduce the gap and strengthen Liverpool’s position in the race near the top of the standings.
However, Iraola is refusing to allow the league table to distract his players from the task ahead.
He praised Arsenal’s overall quality, organisation and understanding between their players, describing Mikel Arteta’s side as a difficult opponent who will demand a top-level performance.
The Liverpool manager also played down comparisons with his previous success against Arsenal during his time at Bournemouth, explaining that Liverpool are a different team and must approach Sunday’s encounter with their own tactical plan.
According to Iraola, winning individual battles, competing strongly in the air, maintaining intensity and defending set-pieces effectively could prove decisive.
With Szoboszlai and Munoz potentially returning, Liverpool will be hoping to have more options available for the important showdown.
The big question now is whether either player can recover in time to help the Reds secure a vital victory against Arsenal at Anfield.
What do you think? Should Liverpool risk bringing Szoboszlai back against Arsenal, or should the club give him more time to recover? Share your thoughts in the comments.
