Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has revealed that Dominik Szoboszlai and Victor Muñoz could both return to action when the Reds face Arsenal this weekend.
Both players missed Liverpool’s midweek Carabao Cup victory over Chelsea, which ended in a penalty shootout.
Szoboszlai has been struggling with a recurring hamstring problem, while Muñoz has been sidelined with a knee injury. Both players picked up their respective issues during Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Brentford on October 17.
However, Iraola has offered some hope, confirming that the duo still have a chance of making the squad.
“They have a chance, but I don’t know for sure if they will be involved or not. We still have two days, so I think there is a chance,” the Liverpool boss explained.
Meanwhile, Jeremie Frimpong is unlikely to feature after suffering another hamstring problem shortly after coming on against Brentford.
Iraola also defended Ryan Gravenberch amid questions about his inconsistent performances, insisting that the midfielder remains an important part of his plans.
The Liverpool manager acknowledged that Gravenberch has delivered both impressive and disappointing performances but stressed that the club continues to trust his ability.
Liverpool currently sit fourth in the Premier League, six points behind second-placed Arsenal. A victory at Anfield on Sunday would significantly reduce the gap.
Iraola, however, insists his attention is firmly on preparing for what he expects to be a difficult encounter rather than worrying about the league table.
He praised Arsenal’s quality, teamwork and understanding between players, while expressing confidence that Liverpool can rise to the challenge with the support of their home fans.
The manager also dismissed comparisons with his previous success against Arsenal while at Bournemouth, explaining that Liverpool have a different squad and must approach the contest with a different tactical plan.
He believes winning individual battles, dominating aerial duels, working harder and defending set-pieces effectively could prove decisive.
Liverpool will be hoping Szoboszlai and Muñoz recover in time as they prepare for Sunday’s huge Premier League showdown at Anfield.
