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Liverpool vs. Chelsea: Carabao Cup Final Squad Update

Published

5 months ago

February 24, 2024

Liverpool is facing a challenging scenario ahead of the Carabao Cup final clash against Chelsea, as they will be missing eight key players. Meanwhile, there are uncertainties surrounding the fitness of Darwin Nunez, Mohamed Salah, and Dominik Szoboszlai.

Injury Woes for Liverpool

Players Ruled Out

Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker, Curtis Jones, and Diogo Jota are sidelined due to injuries, leaving a significant gap in the team’s lineup for the Wembley showdown.

Monitoring Key Players

Assistant manager Pepijn Lijnders revealed that Darwin Nunez, Mohamed Salah, and Dominik Szoboszlai’s fitness is under close observation. With only two training sessions remaining before the final, decisions regarding their involvement will be made at the last minute.

Recovery Timeline

Lijnders provided insights into the recovery timeline for the sidelined players. Thiago Alcantara, Stefan Bajcetic, Ben Doak, and Joel Matip are expected to be out for a considerable period, with Curtis Jones likely to return around the international break.

Pre-final Preparations

Despite concerns over player fitness, Liverpool’s squad is making every effort to ensure proper recovery and preparation ahead of the crucial final clash against Chelsea.

Chelsea’s Squad Update

Chelsea, on the other hand, is grappling with its own set of challenges but could potentially see the return of Thiago Silva for the final.

Potential Returns

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino hinted at Thiago Silva’s possible involvement, pending further assessment. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is also in contention after recovering from his recent injury setback.

Injury Concerns

However, Chelsea will have to make do without captain Reece James, along with Benoit Badiashile, Carney Chukwuemeka, Marc Cucurella, and Romeo Lavia, who are all ruled out due to various reasons.

Final Preparations

Pochettino emphasized the importance of assessing player fitness before finalizing the squad. While most of the team selection is decided, uncertainties remain until the last moment.

Recent Performances

Recapping their last matches, Chelsea drew 1-1 against Manchester City, while Liverpool secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Luton Town. These performances provide insights into the teams’ form leading up to the Carabao Cup final.

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