Liverpool manager Arne Slot has delivered a mixed injury update ahead of his side's pivotal Premier League encounter with leaders Arsenal this Thursday night.
Ekitike a Major Doubt for Emirates Trip
The most concerning news for the Reds surrounds striker Hugo Ekitike, who missed Saturday's 2-2 draw with Fulham. The French forward underwent an MRI scan after feeling discomfort in training, with the results confirming the issue is more serious than first hoped.
"We were hoping it was just a bit of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), which he also had," Slot explained. "Unfortunately, we saw a little bit more and then you cannot take a risk." This leaves Ekitike as a significant doubt for the trip to North London.
Wirtz Given All-Clear After Scare
In more positive news, attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz has been cleared to play. The German international also underwent a scan last week for a fitness concern, but it revealed only minor muscle soreness.
This allowed Wirtz to feature against Fulham at Craven Cottage, where he scored, and he is expected to be available for selection against Mikel Arteta's side.
Title Race Context for High-Stakes Clash
The match at the Emirates Stadium takes on huge significance in the Premier League title race. Arsenal currently sit six points clear at the summit after their 3-2 win over Bournemouth and Manchester City's dramatic 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday.
Liverpool, unbeaten since late November, will aim to close that gap but have drawn their last two matches, including the late disappointment against Fulham where Harrison Reed equalised in the 97th minute.
Slot highlighted the intense schedule as a factor in his players' fitness, noting that for many, including Ekitike, this is their first season coping with the demands of the Premier League and Champions League without a winter break.
The Dutch coach will now have to decide on his attacking options for one of the biggest games of the season, with the fitness of his key forwards under the microscope.
