Liverpool are set to face Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield this Sunday, February 14, at 2pm (14:00 GMT), with the team navigating through managerial and injury challenges. Since new manager Vitor Pereira took the helm in December, Liverpool have secured five victories out of their ten matches across all competitions. Their unbeaten run in the league since September has propelled them to the top of the Premier League standings, seven points clear of Arsenal. In contrast, Everton, who drew 2-2 with Liverpool on Wednesday, sit 15th, while Wolves linger in 17th place, precariously close to the relegation zone.
The Everton match was not without drama. Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who was sent off during the heated encounter, will be absent from the sidelines against Wolverhampton Wanderers due to suspension. The match saw Abdoulaye Doucoure and Curtis Jones receive red cards shortly before a stoppage-time equalizer from James Tarkowski ignited a scuffle between the teams.
“The extra time that was five minutes and ended up being eight, happens a lot. And the emotions got the better of me,” – Arne Slot
“If I look back at it, I would love to do it differently.” – Arne Slot
Slot reflected on the incident, acknowledging his regret and the ongoing review process.
“That is (an) ongoing process now and I think I have to respect that, so I can’t go into details,” – Arne Slot
Despite the contentious draw, Slot believed Liverpool were close to securing victory.
“A draw would have been, maybe, a fair result. But with us leading after 97 minutes, it felt as if we were quite close to winning the game, so it felt like we dropped two points,” – Arne Slot
Liverpool's preparations for Sunday's fixture are further complicated by potential absences in their lineup. Defender Joe Gomez and midfielder Tyler Morton are doubtful due to injuries. Additionally, Dutch forward Cody Gakpo's participation remains uncertain after sustaining a knock.
“Cody is a bit of a doubt. I had to take him off due to an injury because he got a knock. Let’s see how he is today,” – Arne Slot
Slot acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead as the season progresses.
“So it is going to be a challenge again on Sunday but that is normal on the last part of the season in the best league of the world.” – Arne Slot
“The second half of the season is always more difficult than the first for many reasons. Some teams bring in new players, some teams are playing longer together,” – Arne Slot
