Premier League Comes Back with Important Injury Reports
The English top flight returns this weekend following the international break, with coaches providing vital team news ahead of the weekend's games.
Liverpool Face Substantial Absences
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has revealed that the young defender, the Dutch full-back, and Wirtz will all be unavailable for this weekend's match against Forest.
On a positive note, starting goalkeeper Alisson Becker has fully recovered from his muscle problem and is ready for selection.
The Liverpool boss revealed that Joe Gomez was absent from sessions on Thursday but is expected to be available for consideration, though it's unlikely he'll be used for the complete game.
Turf Moor Side Have Encouraging Report on Their Striker
Burnley manager Scott Parker has stated that forward the Albanian may have "dodged a bullet" after suffering an ankle injury while featuring for the Albanian side against the Three Lions.
The striker left the game on a assisted device, but subsequent checks have revealed the issue is "much less severe than feared."
Parker commented that their striker has participated in sessions since Wednesday and could potentially feature versus his former club the Blues on Saturday.
The Magpies Injury Reports
Newcastle manager Howe has offered reports on multiple important squad members ahead of their game against the champions.
the winger has "worked very hard" to recover from his recent issue and is "touch-and-go" for tomorrow's match.
Livramento is "nearing fitness" after recovering from a knee ligament injury and is also in contention for selection.
Pope is "fine" after following head injury assessment, while Joelinton and Sandro Tonali are both available to play against City.
Weekend Premier League Matches
- Turf Moor hosts Chelsea (Sat early kickoff UK time)
- Liverpool v Nottingham Forest (standard kickoff)
- The Cherries host West Ham (standard kickoff)
- Wolves host Palace (3pm)
- Brighton v Brentford (3pm)
- Sunderland visit Craven Cottage (3pm)
- Newcastle v Man City (5.30pm)
- Villa visit Elland Road (Sunday afternoon)
- Spurs visit the Emirates (Sun late kickoff)
- United host Everton (Monday night)
Tactical Focus on Howe
Newcastle could find themselves in the relegation zone if they lose against Manchester City and results in other games don't go their way.
The historical record aren't great for Howe, who has failed to secure victory Pep Guardiola in numerous past top flight matches.
The statistics against the City manager stands at two draws and sixteen defeats from their previous meetings.
"We've developed and without doubt I've seen a massive improvement from us," said Burnley coach the gaffer. "They're just small details at this point in our development."
The return of English football fixtures comes after a chaotic FIFA window that featured remarkable events including the Scottish team's nail-biting achievement for the World Cup.