Liverpool have been handed another injury setback, and unfortunately, Jeremie Frimpong is the player supporters should be most concerned about.
Andoni Iraola has confirmed that Frimpong is unlikely to return before the November international break after suffering a new muscle injury during Saturday’s 2-1 win over Brentford.
There was better news of sorts regarding Dominik Szoboszlai, although Liverpool will still need to be patient with the Hungarian midfielder.
After everything that happened at Brentford, I’m relieved Liverpool came away with the three points. But losing two players in the same game is far from ideal, especially with the fixtures coming thick and fast.
Frimpong faces a frustrating spell out
Frimpong’s injury is particularly frustrating because he had only just returned to action.
The Dutchman came on at half-time against Brentford but lasted only a few minutes before being forced off again.
Iraola explained that Frimpong had suffered a new muscle injury and admitted it would be difficult to have him available before the next international break.
That suggests Liverpool could be without him for several matches, including Tuesday’s Champions League meeting with Villarreal and the upcoming Premier League fixtures.
I feel for Frimpong because he has barely had the chance to build any momentum at Liverpool. His pace and attacking threat were among the reasons the club brought him to Anfield, but injuries have repeatedly interrupted his progress.
For now, Liverpool need to concentrate on getting him fully fit rather than rushing him back.
Szoboszlai’s situation is different
The update on Szoboszlai is slightly more encouraging, although it is still a setback.
The midfielder had missed Liverpool’s previous two matches with a hamstring problem before returning to the starting lineup against Brentford.
Unfortunately, he had to come off after 32 minutes.
Iraola explained that Szoboszlai had suffered a recurrence of the same issue rather than a completely new injury. He said Liverpool would need to be more patient, but added that “it’s not like we have to wait a lot of time.”
That is the line I would take some encouragement from.
It doesn’t give us a definite return date, and Liverpool clearly won’t want to risk another setback. But it sounds as though Szoboszlai’s situation is less serious than Frimpong’s.
The frustrating part is that he had already missed games and was clearly keen to get back involved. Now he must wait a little longer.
Liverpool need to manage this carefully
The timing makes things difficult for Iraola.
Liverpool have Villarreal at Anfield in the Champions League before facing Brighton in the Premier League, with more demanding fixtures to come.
Frimpong’s absence also adds to the pressure on Liverpool’s right-back options. Ronald Araújo has been providing defensive security in the position, while Victor Muñoz impressed after being moved there against Brentford.
Iraola praised Muñoz’s performance, which is encouraging, because Liverpool may need him to contribute there again while Frimpong recovers.
In midfield, Szoboszlai’s absence means Liverpool will need others to take responsibility. His energy, pressing and ability to carry the ball forward are important qualities, and he has been a key figure for the team.
There is no point pretending these injuries don’t matter. They do.
But Liverpool have to find solutions rather than allow the situation to derail their season.
Hopefully, Szoboszlai will be back soon
If I had to take one positive from Iraola’s update, it would be his comments about Szoboszlai.
The manager hasn’t promised an immediate return, but his suggestion that Liverpool may not have to wait too long offers some hope.
Frimpong’s situation sounds more concerning, and I hope Liverpool resist the temptation to rush him back before he’s ready.
The Reds need both players fit and contributing, particularly with such a busy schedule ahead.
For now, the priority is clear: get Frimpong through his recovery properly and give Szoboszlai the extra time he needs.
Liverpool have taken three valuable points from Brentford, but the injuries are a reminder of how quickly things can change.
Let’s hope Szoboszlai’s absence is short, Frimpong makes a full recovery, and Liverpool can get both players back on the pitch as soon as it is safe to do so.
By Jamie (The Kopite View)
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