Liverpool make Jeremie Frimpong decision ahead of Crystal Palace clash

Liverpool make Jeremie Frimpong decision ahead of Crystal Palace clash Jeremie Frimpong fitness update gives Liverpool a timely lift before Crystal Palace Liverpool head to Selhurst Park in need of a response, and the latest Jeremie Frimpong fitness update provides a welcome piece of encouragement ahead of the Crystal Palace clash. Consecutive defeats against Arsenal in the Premier League and Fenerbahce in Europe have increased the focus on squad management, selection balance and how Andoni Iraola handles a testing moment early in the campaign. One major talking point from the Arsenal loss centred on Alexander Isak and a penalty decision that went against Liverpool. Iraola made his feelings clear afterwards, saying, “definitely”, when asked whether his players would go to ground in similar situations moving forward. That frustration has now given way to preparation for Palace, a side in poor recent form but one that has often made life uncomfortable for visiting teams in south London. Returning Dutch Star Gives a Different Option? According to Daily Mail , Frimpong is now close to full fitness and could be available this weekend if absolutely needed. Liverpool’s medical and coaching staff are understood to be taking a cautious line, which feels sensible given his recent record since arriving from Bayer Leverkusen. His time at Anfield has already been disrupted far more than anyone anticipated, particularly when set against the durability he showed in Germany. Photo: IMAGO Iraola had previously explained the severity of the issue, saying, “Frimpong has a new muscle injury. It’s difficult to predict [when he will return]. We will have to wait until he recovers but it is going to be difficult before the break. We will try, but it is going to be difficult to have him.” That backdrop makes Liverpool’s patience understandable. The club have fresh evidence of the danger in accelerating return timelines. Dominik Szoboszlai suffered a further setback after being reintroduced, and that case has only strengthened internal caution around players with recurring muscular problems. Frimpong’s hamstring history since joining Liverpool means a carefully managed build-up through the international break may still be the preferred route, even if he is technically available. For Liverpool, that is the key point. Palace away demands intensity, recovery speed and control in transition, all areas Frimpong can help with when fully fit. The priority, though, is having him available consistently, not simply using him for one afternoon before risking another absence. Our View This feels like exactly the right approach. There is always temptation to throw an important player back in when results have turned and confidence needs a lift, but Liverpool have already seen where that can lead. If Frimpong is only just ready, there is no sense in gambling with a player who could be a major weapon across the rest of the season. The encouraging part is that the update sounds genuinely positive. Having him back around the squad matters, even if his minutes are managed carefully. His pace, drive and attacking ambition can give Liverpool something different, especially in games where the team need width and penetration from deeper areas. Selhurst Park is never straightforward, so the wider squad will still need to stand up. Palace may be on a poor run, but that usually makes a fixture more awkward rather than easier. A strong, composed away display would do plenty to settle the mood after a difficult week. There is also something reassuring in seeing Iraola and the club act with restraint. That suggests lessons are being learned, and over the course of a long season that can make a huge difference. If Frimpong returns at the right time and stays fit, Liverpool will be far better for waiting a little longer now.