Liverpool face triple injury doubt as Iraola provides update before Brentford clash

Liverpool face triple injury doubt as Iraola provides update before Brentford clash Liverpool could be without Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo for Saturday’s Premier League encounter with Brentford, with all three players facing late fitness assessments. The trio sustained injuries while representing their countries during the international break and subsequently missed Liverpool’s matches against Manchester City and LASK. Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has refused to rule them out of the weekend fixture, although their availability remains uncertain. Speaking at Thursday’s pre-match press conference, Iraola explained that the players would need to demonstrate their fitness during the remaining training sessions. “It’s early for us to say,” the Spaniard said. “We still have two more training [sessions].” Iraola added that none of the three had recovered sufficiently to feature against LASK on Wednesday, but their situations could improve before Saturday. The uncertainty presents Liverpool with another selection challenge following their 3-0 Premier League defeat to Manchester City last weekend. Szoboszlai’s potential absence is particularly concerning because Ryan Gravenberch is suspended after receiving a red card against City. The Hungarian midfielder’s return would provide much-needed experience and creativity in central areas, where Liverpool are already short of options. However, if Szoboszlai fails to recover, highly rated youngster Trey Nyoni could be handed his first Premier League start. Liverpool also face possible attacking shortages, with Isak and Gakpo yet to receive clearance to return. Their absences would place additional responsibility on Bradley Barcola and Florian Wirtz, who impressed during Wednesday’s Champions League victory over LASK. Barcola delivered a particularly encouraging performance, scoring a hat-trick to strengthen his case for another starting opportunity. Iraola will hope the Frenchman’s improved form continues as Liverpool attempt to regain momentum domestically. Meanwhile, the Liverpool manager confirmed that defender Giovanni Leoni’s recovery from a serious knee injury has taken longer than initially anticipated. The 19-year-old was expected to resume first-team training during the October international break, but his rehabilitation has been delayed. Iraola explained that Leoni’s injury involved more than an anterior cruciate ligament tear, requiring additional caution. The club are now targeting the November international break for his return to team training. Liverpool are determined to avoid rushing the Italian defender back before he is physically ready. For Saturday’s encounter, however, the immediate priority remains establishing whether Szoboszlai, Isak and Gakpo can return. Their availability could significantly influence Iraola’s selection as Liverpool look to respond to their recent league setback.