Arne Slot confirms Joe Gomez could return as Liverpool prepare for Man City clash

Gomez has been sidelined since suffering a knock at Bournemouth when he collided with goalkeeper Alisson Becker at the Vitality Stadium. While the injury was not expected to be serious, the defender has not featured since.

"Jeremie Frimpong is definitely not available for the weekend," Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference. "Joe Gomez, we have hope he can train Saturday. He may be available to help in the game because we don't have many defenders left."

Long-term absentees Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni will remain out, but aside from these players, Slot expects the rest of the squad to be ready for selection.

Midfielder Florian Wirtz has returned to full fitness after working hard on his strength and conditioning off the pitch. Slot praised the German's progress: "Full credit to the player on the pitch and in the gym, putting in the work.

"His improvement off the ball has been the biggest change, and that combination makes him ready for the Premier League. The Premier League is about both on and off the ball."

Slot also discussed Liverpool's record 82 million dollar signing of centre-back Jeremy Jacquet this week, a move designed to strengthen the squad ahead of the summer window.

"Very pleasing," Slot said. "He is a very big talent, and at his age, that potential is huge. We weren't the only club interested, which is a big compliment. This signing reflects our model: young players who can improve and contribute both in the short and long term. The club's future is in a very good place."

Chelsea and other European clubs had reportedly been keen on Jacquet, but the 20-year-old chose Liverpool, with Rennes insisting he would remain in France until the summer.