Arne Slot provides fitness updates on Jeremie Frimpong, Alexander Isak, Joe Gomez and Wataru Endo before the clash with Nottingham Forest.

Arne Slot has shared the latest injury news on Liverpool’s Jeremie Frimpong, Alexander Isak, Joe Gomez and Wataru Endo ahead of Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Nottingham Forest.

While Gomez has recently featured off the bench in wins over Sunderland and Brighton & Hove Albion, the other three have been sidelined. Endo, in particular, suffered a significant setback during the victory at the Stadium of Light.

A string of defensive injuries has forced Slot to use several midfielders at right-back in recent matches. However, there is optimism that a more natural option could be available for the trip to the City Ground this weekend.

Slot’s latest updates

Speaking in Thursday’s pre-match press conference (via Liverpool Echo), Slot delivered mixed news:

Frimpong: He will miss the Forest game, but the hope is he could return next week if his recovery stays on track.

Endo: He faces a lengthy spell out, although the exact timeframe remains unclear.

Gomez: Slot confirmed he is fit and ready to start against Forest.

Isak: The striker has returned to light training for the first time this week, but his comeback is still some way off. Slot suggested a return to full team training could come around the international break, possibly late March or early April, though he would not immediately be ready to start matches.
Gomez boost, patience required elsewhere

In the short term, Frimpong’s absence is a blow, but Gomez being declared fit to start is a major positive. Since Frimpong’s injury against Qarabag FK in January, Liverpool have had to rely on midfielders to fill in at right-back — including Dominik Szoboszlai, Endo and Curtis Jones — making Gomez’s return especially timely.

Looking further ahead, there are encouraging signs regarding Isak, even if caution remains necessary following his fitness struggles since his high-profile move from Newcastle United. If he is back after the international break, his availability for the crucial post-Easter fixtures could be vital. Hugo Ekitike has impressed in his absence, but added depth up front would be a significant boost.

As for Endo, Slot recently expressed hope that the Japanese midfielder could return before the season concludes. For now, that appears to be the most optimistic outlook after the injury that, as Virgil van Dijk admitted, left the squad devastated.

Liverpool will now hope for steady progress from both Endo and Isak, while potentially welcoming Frimpong back in the coming weeks as the campaign enters its decisive phase.