Liverpool's Right-Back Crisis Deepens as Frimpong Faces Weeks Out
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed the extent of the injury blow suffered by summer signing Jeremie Frimpong, revealing the defender will be sidelined for several weeks with a groin problem. The Dutch full-back limped out of Wednesday's comprehensive 6-0 Champions League victory over Qarabag, casting a shadow over what should have been a celebratory evening at Anfield.
Defensive Resources Stretched to Breaking Point
The timing of Frimpong's absence could hardly be worse for Slot's side, coming at a moment when Liverpool's defensive resources are already severely depleted. The situation is compounded by the season-ending injury to Conor Bradley, while versatile defender Joe Gomez remains unavailable for Saturday's Premier League clash against Newcastle United.
Slot offered a mixed assessment of the situation, stating: "He is out for a few weeks but not as bad as we thought, so something positive from something not so positive." This represents Frimpong's third separate spell on the treatment table during what has been an injury-disrupted first season with the Merseyside club since his arrival last summer.
Midfielders Provide Unconventional Cover
With specialist options at right-back virtually exhausted, Slot has been forced to consider unconventional solutions. During the Qarabag fixture, experienced midfielder Wataru Endo spent the majority of the match operating in defensive positions, while Curtis Jones - who has previously filled in at full-back - has returned to availability after illness.
"Curtis is again available, he was sick," confirmed the Liverpool manager. "Joe will not be available but that doesn't have to take much longer anymore. But he will not be available for the weekend."
Konate Returns as Isak Recovery Continues
There was some positive news for Liverpool supporters as Slot confirmed the return of centre-back Ibrahima Konate, who has missed the last three matches while on compassionate leave following the passing of his father.
"Ibou trained with us yesterday, will train with us today and will be in the squad tomorrow," revealed Slot, providing a timely boost to Liverpool's defensive options ahead of a crucial period of fixtures.
Meanwhile, striker Alexander Isak remains some distance from making his comeback from a broken leg, with Slot explaining: "He's not even on the pitch yet. In terms of his recovery work, it's going to take a while, as we knew." The Swedish international had already been ruled out of facing his former club Newcastle this weekend.
The injury to Frimpong represents a significant setback for Liverpool's ambitions across multiple competitions, forcing Slot to deploy creative solutions during a demanding phase of the season where squad depth is being tested to its limits.
