Liverpool are expected to make two changes to their starting lineup for today’s Premier League meeting with Leeds United at Anfield, although one underperforming player is likely to keep his place in the side.
Arne Slot has been handed a timely selection boost for his first home fixture of 2026, with Dominik Szoboszlai set to return to the starting XI. The Hungarian midfielder missed last weekend’s hard-fought 2-1 win over Wolves due to suspension after picking up his fifth yellow card of the campaign against Tottenham.
Szoboszlai’s availability comes as a major lift for Liverpool ahead of what is expected to be a challenging contest. Leeds proved difficult opponents less than a month ago, holding the Reds to an entertaining 3-3 draw at Elland Road, and they arrive at Anfield still capable of causing problems despite several absentees.
Liverpool, however, remain without key players. Club-record signing Alexander Isak continues his recovery from a fractured leg sustained against Spurs and is not expected back for several months. Mohamed Salah is away on international duty with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, while Wataru Endo and Joe Gomez are both sidelined and unlikely to return for at least a few weeks. Giovanni Leoni also remains out with a long-term knee injury.
Endo is currently managing an ankle issue, while Gomez is dealing with a muscular problem, further limiting Slot’s defensive and midfield options.
Szoboszlai has been one of Liverpool’s standout performers this season and is almost certain to be recalled to the lineup. Curtis Jones, who featured against Wolves, is expected to make way as Slot reshuffles his midfield.
Federico Chiesa, who was handed a rare start last time out, is likely to drop back to the bench. Despite showing flashes of quality in limited minutes this season, the Italian winger has yet to fully convince Slot as a regular starter.
Cody Gakpo has returned to full fitness but has played only a brief cameo since early December. As a result, he is expected to be used as an impact substitute once again rather than being rushed back into the starting XI.
At right-back, Slot faces a decision between Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley, with both players pushing for inclusion.
Liverpool head into the fixture having won five of their last seven matches and currently sit fourth in the Premier League table as the new year begins.
Projected Liverpool Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Jones; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Wirtz; Ekitike
Injured: Leoni, Isak, Endo, Gomez
Unavailable: Salah (AFCON)
The match will take place at Anfield as Liverpool look to start 2026 with a crucial home victory
