The last time it was Liverpool against Watford, they were invincible in the Premier League ahead of a trip to Vicarage Road. Watford sat in the relegation zone while the Reds had won their previous 18 Premier League matches and were one win away from claiming sole ownership of the “most consecutive Premier League wins” record.
However, the Hornets had other ideas, stinging Liverpool 3-0 thanks to a stellar Ismaila Sarr performance. Liverpool have their first opportunity at revenge, but they are set to be without a few key players for Claudio Ranieri‘s debut in the Watford dugout.
Liverpool Likely Without Four Key Players
Two Injuries for Liverpool
Diogo Jota was sent home early from international duty after picking up a muscle injury, casting his availability for this weekend’s clash in doubt. The forward’s absence paves the way for Roberto Firmino to start at Vicarage Road.
Thiago is also likely to miss out as he recovers from a calf injury he suffered against Crystal Palace on September 18.
Brazilian Players (Probably) Out of Contention From Playing
Fabinho and Alisson are on international duty with Brazil, and unless an improbable early release from the team occurs, both will play a role in their October 14 World Cup Qualifying match against Uruguay. The match kicks off fewer than 36 hours prior to the Watford clash, and is over 8,000 kilometres away.
Two Important Players Potentially Ready for Action Despite Concern
It was expected that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s groin injury would see him miss the Watford clash after missing Liverpool’s final two matches before the international break. However, Chris Bascombe of the Telegraph suggests the right-back is in contention to return to the starting line-up.
England’s U21 manager Lee Carsley was unsure if Curtis Jones would be able to feature in their clash against Andorra, throwing Jones’ Watford availability in doubt. However, he came off the bench to assist Emile Smith Rowe’s match-winner, showing Jones’ injury was only minor and should not harm his chances of featuring on Saturday.
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