As the Premier League takes a brief pause for international fixtures, focus shifts to the fitness of key players for both Liverpool and Chelsea ahead of their much-anticipated clash on October 20th at Anfield.
Liverpool, currently sitting at the top of the table, heads into the international break with strong momentum. However, the squad faces some injury concerns. According to LiverpoolWorld, 18 players from the Reds have been called up for national team duties, including new signing Giorgio Mamardashvili, who will represent Georgia in the Nations League.
Despite their current form, Liverpool must contend with several injury worries, especially in the goalkeeping department. Alisson is doubtful for the Chelsea match after suffering a suspected hamstring injury in the win against Crystal Palace. Manager Arne Slot confirmed that Alisson’s recovery may take weeks.
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Midfielder Harvey Elliott is sidelined with a foot fracture, with no clear timeline for his return, though he could be back later in October. Alexis Mac Allister is another concern after he was substituted against Crystal Palace due to a groin issue. His participation in the Chelsea match is in doubt, especially since he has not trained with Argentina.
Federico Chiesa, who missed the last game due to injury, is expected to return soon. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who was absent due to illness, has been called up by the Republic of Ireland and could be available to step in if Alisson remains sidelined.
Liverpool’s Injury Status:
- Unavailable: Alisson, Harvey Elliott
- Doubtful: Federico Chiesa, Alexis Mac Allister
Chelsea, too, faces injury challenges. Reece James remains a long-term absentee due to a hamstring injury, with no clear return date. Summer signing Omari Kellyman is also out and is expected to be unavailable until November or December.
Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana will both miss the Liverpool match due to suspension after accumulating five yellow cards each this season. Carney Chukwuemeka, who missed Chelsea’s last match due to illness, might return in time for the Anfield clash.
Levi Colwill and Noni Madueke, who were substituted in Chelsea’s match against Nottingham Forest, have been called up for international duty, suggesting no serious injury concerns for the pair.
Chelsea’s Injury Status:
- Unavailable: Marc Cucurella (suspended), Wesley Fofana (suspended), Reece James, Omari Kellyman
- Doubtful: Carney Chukwuemeka
As both sides deal with these injury problems, the upcoming match promises to be an exciting contest, with Liverpool looking to maintain their lead and Chelsea eager to continue their recent unbeaten run.