Liverpool return to Premier League action this evening with a home fixture against Leeds United, as Arne Slot’s side look to kick off 2026 in positive fashion and climb the league table with a vital three points.
There is a boost for the Reds with Dominik Szoboszlai back in contention. The Hungarian midfielder missed the previous league victory over Wolves after serving a one-match suspension for accumulating five yellow cards, but he is now eligible to feature again and could slot straight back into the starting lineup.
However, Liverpool are still dealing with several absences. Joe Gomez remains unavailable after sustaining a muscle injury during the mid-December clash with Brighton. Wataru Endo is also sidelined as he continues to recover from an ankle issue and has not played since the dramatic 3–3 draw away at Leeds more than three weeks ago.
Alexander Isak and Giovanni Leoni are both still out with longer-term injuries, limiting Slot’s options in key areas. Mohamed Salah will also miss the encounter as he is currently away on international duty with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. In defence, Ibrahima Konate will need to tread carefully, as one more yellow card would result in a one-match Premier League suspension.
Despite the injury concerns, Liverpool are expected to field a strong starting XI as they aim to maintain momentum at Anfield and begin the new year on a high.
Probable Liverpool XI: Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Jones; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Wirtz; Ekitike
With key players returning and others stepping up in the absence of senior figures, the clash against Leeds presents an important opportunity for Liverpool to assert themselves early in 2026.
