Arne Slot issues Liverpool injury latest with updates on Alisson and Giorgi Mamardashvili

The Liverpool head coach gave an update during Friday's press conference ahead of the clash against Crystal Palace, with the goalkeeping department his biggest area of concern

Arne Slot has confirmed that Alisson may be in line to return in Saturday's Premier League clash against Crystal Palace, but admitted the game could come "too soon" for the Brazilian.

The Reds head into the match at Anfield looking to strengthen their top-five hopes, and they can move eight points clear of Brighton in sixth win a win over Palace.

But Liverpool again might have to manage without first-choice goalkeeper Alisson, who has not played since mid-March due to a hamstring injury. With Giorgi Mamardashvili also picking up a deep wound last week in the win over Everton, third-choice Freddie Woodman was forced to deputize for the final half and hour, and is expected to start again against Palace.

READ MORE : Liverpool fan groups confirm protests plans vs Crystal Palace with Anfield displayREAD MORE : Hugo Ekitike surgery supervised by same doctor behind NBA superstar's rapid return

Speaking in Friday's press conference, Slot said: "No, Giorgi will definitely not be available for tomorrow and for the upcoming weeks.

"Ali is close to a return of play. Let’s see if tomorrow comes too early, yes or no. That leaves Freddie Woodman as an option who is definitely fit."

Should he play, Woodman would make a third Liverpool appearance since joining the club last summer, and only a fifth Premier League start of his career. Slot said the third-choice goalkeeper is "ready" if called upon.

Slot also added that Liverpool is exploring why Alisson is suffering from repeated hamstring injuries.

"Of course, we’re looking at these kinds of injuries he is having. A muscle injury, you always try to prevent that with your training schedule.

"But he is not the only one. Football has changed so much and everywhere you see muscle injuries more and more - and we all know why, because of the crazy schedule we have to play with.

"I would not put it down to age. I would put it down more to the schedule we are facing."

Meanwhile, Arne Slot confirmed Joe Gomez will be back in the squad this weekend after missing last week's win over Everton.

"That’s really positive because last week I only had two center-backs, so it’s a positive that Joe is back."

Slot added that Hugo Ekitike's surgery on the ruptured Achilles went well, but would not be drawn on his possible return date.

"There are so many crucial steps in such a long rehab process to determine how long he will be out. It will take a long time. He can now work on his recovery, which will take a long time but he will be back stronger."

Click here to read article