Liverpool and Crystal Palace Face Absentee Challenges Ahead of Weekend Clash
Liverpool and Crystal Palace are both dealing with a number of senior absentees as they prepare for their upcoming match this weekend. Crystal Palace, currently sitting 14th in the table, have struggled for form this season with only four wins so far in the 2023/24 campaign.
Crystal Palace’s Injury Woes
Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson will be hoping to turn his team’s fortunes around as they host his former side at Selhurst Park in Saturday’s early kick-off. However, he will have to do so without several key players.
One notable absence is midfielder Cheick Doucoure, who was linked with a move to Liverpool during the summer transfer window. Unfortunately, Doucoure sustained a serious Achilles injury and is expected to be out for the rest of the season.
Forward Jesurun Rak-Sakyi is also sidelined with a thigh problem and won’t be available until the new year. Additionally, Eberechi Eze and Rob Holding are dealing with ankle problems and won’t be able to feature against Liverpool.
Furthermore, Crystal Palace will be without goalkeeper Dean Henderson, who is still recovering from a thigh injury that resurfaced in September. However, Henderson is no longer the first-choice goalkeeper at Selhurst Park, as Sam Johnstone has taken over that role.
Liverpool’s Injury Concerns
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp also has his fair share of injury concerns heading into the match. Joel Matip, Diogo Jota, Alisson, Andy Robertson, Thiago, and Stefan Bajcetic are all still unavailable for selection.
December is a busy period for football teams, and squad rotation becomes crucial to preserve players’ fitness. Both managers will have to navigate their teams through these challenges in order to maintain their performance levels.
Despite the absences, Liverpool will be looking to build on their recent 2-0 victory over Sheffield United and put pressure on league leaders Arsenal. Meanwhile, Arsenal will face a tough test against Aston Villa in Saturday’s evening kick-off.