Arne Slot Addresses Liverpool's Defensive Concerns Amid Joe Gomez Injury

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has downplayed concerns over his side’s defensive depth despite a worrying injury setback to Joe Gomez and a shaky 4-2 defeat to AC Milan in pre-season action.

Gomez, who suffered a minor injury, has been forced to return to England early from the club’s Asia tour, prompting tactical improvisations from Slot’s coaching staff.

The match in Hong Kong saw midfielder Ryan Gravenberch deployed alongside Virgil van Dijk at centre-back, a move that raised eyebrows, but Slot was quick to offer reassurance.

“I’m looking to my left and I don’t think we have a concern at centre-back!” Slot joked in his post-match comments as quoted by Skysports.

While not a natural defender, Gravenberch’s ability to adapt was on display.

“I think Ryan showed today, by the way, that he can play in that position. He did it last season as well,” Slot noted.

The Dutchman, primarily deployed as a No.6 or central midfielder, was tested in an unfamiliar role, a sign of Liverpool’s ongoing experiments ahead of the new Premier League season.

Slot also hinted at further depth within the squad, pointing out that Wataru Endo can also cover in central defence if necessary.

“Although we all know we favour him as a No.6, Wata can play there,” Slot explained.

With Jarell Quansah recently leaving the club and no replacement signed yet, Liverpool’s centre-back pool looks stretched.

However, Slot remains calm, stating, “Joe Gomez only has a minor injury, he has been good for us last season as well. We have enough options left.”

Though Liverpool fans may be hoping for reinforcements before the transfer window closes, Slot’s message for now is of flexibility and belief in the current squad.