Liverpool facing defensive injury crisis with Joe Gomez joining Ibrahima Konate on the sidelines as Arne Slot provides concerning update

During Liverpool’s commanding 5-0 victory, Gomez sustained a hamstring injury that forced him off the field just before half-time. That comes as Liverpool’s first-choice centre-back Ibrahima Konate remains unavailable, having been sidelined since November. Gomez had formed a consistent partnership with Virgil van Dijk in Liverpool’s last six league games, stepping in for the injured Frenchman.

Against West Ham, Jarell Quansah was the only central defender available on the bench. The youngster, who last started a Premier League match on the opening day of the season, now finds himself in a crucial role. Quansah was subbed off at the break in that game at Ipswich, highlighting his lack of regular first-team experience.

After Sunday's match, Slot provided an update on Gomez and said: "You saw today an injury of Joe Gomez. In a sprint, then we all know it’s a hamstring and we all know it’s going take a while before he is back. I don’t know how long but he will be out for quite a bit. These situations can happen in a season.”

Despite the concerning state of Liverpool’s defence, there is a glimmer of hope. Ahead of the West Ham game, Slot hinted at the possibility of Konate making his return in time for Liverpool’s highly-anticipated clash with Manchester United on January 5.

“They (Konate and Conor Bradley) will not be back for West Ham United, but then there is a week in between (before the game against Manchester United) so let’s see how close they are then,” Slot said, via the club’s website.

Liverpool’s win over West Ham extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to eight points, with second-placed Nottingham Forest trailing after playing an additional game. However, the defensive injuries present a potential stumbling block in their title pursuit, especially as they gear up for a packed schedule in January. The reliance on young players like Quansah could be pivotal in maintaining their momentum as they gear up to face the Red Devils.