Liverpool hope to have Florian Wirtz available for West Ham encounter

By SABC Sport
25th February 2026

Liverpool face injury concerns ahead of a crucial run of fixtures, with Florian Wirtz pulling out of the starting line-up against Nottingham Forest due to a back knock sustained during warm-up.

Manager Arne Slot suggested the injury is minor, and Wirtz could return for Saturday's home clash with West Ham United.

Jeremie Frimpong, sidelined since the Champions League match against Qarabag last month, may also be available if confirmed by Slot.

Long-term absences continue to affect the squad, with Alexander Isak and Wataru Endo unavailable, while Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni are out for the season.

Despite these setbacks, Liverpool snatched a dramatic 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest thanks to a 97th-minute strike from Alexis Mac Allister, securing nine points from the last 12 available.

The Reds' performance at the City Ground was far from their best, but the result keeps them in contention for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.

The Premier League standings remain tight. Manchester United's 1-0 win over Everton moved them three points clear of fifth-placed Chelsea, who drew 1-1 at home with Burnley, and sixth-placed Liverpool.

United are now just three points behind third-placed Aston Villa, highlighting the fierce competition at the top.

Liverpool's upcoming fixtures present opportunities to consolidate their position, beginning with Saturday's home game against West Ham and a trip to bottom-placed Wolves on Tuesday.