Arne Slot gives Florian Wirtz fitness update ahead of Liverpool’s FA Cup clash with Wolves
Liverpool face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the FA Cup fifth round at Molineux Stadium on Friday evening, marking the second meeting between the two sides this week.
The Reds suffered a last-gasp 2-1 defeat to Wolves in the Premier League on Tuesday, handing a big blow to their hopes for Champions League qualification.
Florian Wirtz sat out the fixture due to a back injury. The German has not featured since the 1-0 win at Sunderland last month.
Manager Arne Slot has now confirmed that Wirtz has returned to training, but has given no assurance about his availability for the FA Cup clash with Wolves.
He told liverpool.com: “He trained half and half yesterday with the team. What I mean by that is he is a ‘joker’, you say over here, I think, so he made the next step in his rehab.
“So, let’s see where he is today and if he then could be available for a few – a few – minutes tomorrow, in the best scenario.”
Liverpool have struggled in Wirtz’s absence. Tuesday’s defeat to Rob Edwards’ side highlighted how crucial his creativity is for the Reds.
The Germany international has created 66 chances from open play across all competitions this season — the most of any Liverpool player.
After a slow start, Wirtz has established himself as a key player for the Reds. The 22-year-old has six goals and eight assists across all competitions.
His return could be crucial as Liverpool push for Champions League qualification and challenge for silverware.
In other team news, Arne Slot’s side will be without Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley and Wataru Endo for their next visit to Molineux.
Stats from Opta & transfermarkt.com