Midfield dynamo Ryan Gravenberch absent from Liverpool training ahead of Frankfurt clash

This, following an ankle injury sustained in Sunday's loss to Manchester United.

The 23-year-old, who has become a vital part of Arne Slot's midfield setup, twisted his ankle after a challenge with Bryan Mbeumo. Although he initially attempted to play on, Gravenberch was withdrawn just past the hour mark - a rare move for Slot, who seldom substitutes the Dutchman.

Slot confirmed the injury post-match, adding the club would assess Gravenberch's condition ahead of the midweek trip. Even a minor sprain could see him miss critical fixtures in a congested week, with Liverpool playing three games in seven days.

While Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo are potential replacements, neither offers the same defensive control. Endo returned to training on Tuesday, but his match readiness remains uncertain. Alexis Mac Allister, who also picked up a knock against United, trained without issue and is expected to be available.

Gravenberch's absence comes at a time when Liverpool have already struggled without him, particularly in earlier matches where the midfield looked exposed. With Alisson Becker also ruled out and Giovanni Leoni sidelined long-term, the pressure is on Slot to find the right balance quickly as the Reds look to recover from a four-game losing streak.