Slot: Alisson to Return “Very Soon”

Caoimhin Kelleher will continue as Liverpool’s goalkeeper with Alisson Becker nearing a return, although the Brazilian won’t be available for Saturday’s Merseyside derby.

According to The Athletic, Kelleher’s mistake led to Newcastle United’s late equalizer on Wednesday, as Liverpool dropped points in a 3-3 draw. Kelleher failed to claim a free kick, allowing Fabian Schär to score. Manager Slot stated that Alisson “wasn’t ready but will be very soon” and expressed confidence in Kelleher, despite the setback.

Slot told reporters: “It was 1-0 when Joe Gomez made a mistake, and Kelleher saved a one-on-one chance. It could have been 2-0, so he probably saved us a point. If we were two goals down, who knows what would have happened? Unfortunately for Kelleher, if you make a mistake as a goalkeeper, it’s hard for anyone to cover for you. But he has saved us many times before. He’s in a good place despite the disappointment, just like everyone else after losing points in the final minute.”

Slot also confirmed forwards Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa are “close” to returning but unavailable for this match. Chiesa played 60 minutes with Liverpool U21s earlier in the week, scoring in a 4-3 defeat to Nordsjælland to boost his fitness.

Alexis Mac Allister will miss the match due to suspension after receiving his fifth yellow card against Newcastle. Slot confirmed Ryan Gravenberch will start, likely alongside Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai in midfield. Defenders Kostas Tsimikas, Conor Bradley, and Ibrahima Konaté remain sidelined with injuries.

This will be Slot’s first Merseyside derby, which also marks the last Premier League clash at Goodison Park before Everton moves to their new stadium. Slot expects a “special” and challenging encounter.

“It’s special for everyone – fans, players, and managers. Playing in the last match at Goodison Park adds to the occasion, but it’s only a good experience if the result goes your way. That’s our focus. We must be ready for a tough game against a well-coached team with loud fans, perhaps even louder than Newcastle’s,” Slot noted.

Slot reviewed Liverpool’s 2-0 loss at Goodison last season and emphasized Everton’s strength in set pieces and aggressive play.

“The main takeaway is their style of play and what to expect. We need to match their aggression but remain focused and smart. Last season, we were overly aggressive, committing 10 fouls in the first 30 minutes compared to just one from Everton. They’re strong in set pieces, so giving away unnecessary free kicks isn’t wise. We aim to play aggressively but strategically, always adjusting to the opposition’s strengths.”