Florian Wirtz was a surprise omission from Liverpool’s matchday squad for Saturday’s Premier League showdown against Chelsea at Anfield.
Florian Wirtz was left out as Arne Slot made three changes to the side that lost to Manchester United last weekend, with teenage winger Rio Ngumoha coming into the starting XI on the left wing.
Speaking ahead of the match on Friday, Slot revealed that the 23-year-old had been feeling “a bit unwell” during the week but had returned to training two days earlier. However, it now appears the issue worsened again before kick-off.
According to BBC Sport, Wirtz missed the game due to a stomach bug.
Liverpool will certainly feel the absence of the German playmaker, especially with both Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitike also unavailable in attack.
There was at least some positive news for the Reds, with Alexander Isak fit enough to make the bench, while Ngumoha’s inclusion in the starting lineup is likely to excite supporters.
Although Wirtz struggled and faced criticism after last weekend’s defeat to Manchester United, his creativity and quality are still a major loss for Liverpool heading into such a crucial fixture.
Chelsea are also dealing with attacking absences, with Estevao Willian, Alejandro Garnacho, Pedro Neto and Jamie Gittens all sidelined.
Liverpool will now hope the players available can rise to the occasion at Anfield and secure another important home result despite Wirtz’s absence.
