Team News: Four Liverpool stars set to miss Burnley clash

Liverpool vs Burnley: Latest Team News

Liverpool head into their latest Premier League assignment against Burnley with the calm confidence of a side accustomed to setting the tempo rather than chasing it. Saturday’s 3pm meeting at Anfield carries more than routine importance, with Arne Slot looking to stretch his team’s unbeaten run to 12 matches across all competitions and reinforce the sense that last season’s title triumph in 2024/25 was no fleeting peak.

There is a certain rhythm to how Slot now manages moments like these. His Friday press conference was measured, assured and devoid of drama, a reflection of a squad that, long-term casualties aside, remains in good working order. Liverpool’s injury picture is not entirely pristine, yet it is stable enough to avoid last-minute headaches.

“Yes, we’ve got a few injuries. We’ve got Giovanni Leoni out for the season, we’ve got Conor Bradley out for the season and Alexander Isak out for multiple months. But for the rest I think everyone is available,” Slot explained, offering clarity without fuss.

That kind of composure matters when expectation is high. Anfield has become a place where control and patience often prevail over chaos, and Slot’s steady stewardship continues to shape that identity.

Salah absence and European horizon

The most notable missing figure remains Mohamed Salah, still on international duty with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. His prolonged absence has already forced Liverpool to adapt, reshuffling attacking responsibilities and testing the depth of their forward line.

Salah will miss the Burnley fixture, as Egypt are scheduled to face Nigeria in the AFCON third-place play-off on Saturday evening. Yet his return is approaching, and Slot has indicated that he will be back on Merseyside “next week”.

Photo: IMAGO

When pressed on whether the talismanic No.11 could feature in Wednesday’s Champions League trip to Marseille, Slot kept his cards close to his chest. “That’s something we are talking about together now,” he said, hinting at ongoing discussions rather than a firm decision.

For Liverpool, balancing domestic momentum with European ambitions will define the coming weeks, and Salah’s reintegration will be a pivotal subplot.

Burnley fitness picture

Burnley arrive on Merseyside navigating a more complicated medical landscape. Scott Parker’s side may welcome Joe Worrall back into contention, with both he and Lyle Foster set for late fitness checks before kick-off.

Zian Flemming, Burnley’s joint-top scorer this season with six goals, will definitely miss out, a significant blow to their attacking threat. Parker outlined the situation candidly.

“Joe is in contention. He’s close now. He’s been on the grass and we’ll make a decision on him tomorrow before we travel.

“Zian won’t make it. He’s a little bit behind, but could be back for the next game.

“Lyle is feeling a bit better after illness. He’s probably not quite 100 per cent, but we’ll see how he is tomorrow and make a call on his availability thereafter.”

Beyond that trio, Burnley’s injury list also includes Zeki Amdouni, Jordan Beyer, Josh Cullen, Connor Roberts and Mike Tresor, leaving Parker with limited room for manoeuvre.

Parker welcomes international returnees

There is, however, a positive element for Burnley in the return of Axel Tuanzebe and Hannibal Mejbri, who have both come back from AFCON duty with DR Congo and Tunisia respectively. Their presence adds freshness and competition to a squad in need of both.

Parker has been encouraged by their reintegration. “It’s been pleasing to get the lads back, they’ve brought a freshness into the group,” he said. “Fresh eyes, fresh energy, which can only be of benefit.

“They loved their time with their respective countries, but they return fully focused on the battle that lies ahead for us now. It’s been good to have them back.”