Liverpool
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that third-choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman is in line to start the crucial Premier League clash against Crystal Palace. The 29-year-old finds himself in the spotlight as the club navigates an urgent injury crisis between the posts. With both Alisson Becker and Giorgi Mamardashvili sidelined, Woodman is the only fully fit senior option available.
Woodman made his Liverpool debut last weekend under dramatic circumstances, coming off the bench during the 2-1 Merseyside derby victory over Everton. Slot revealed that Mamardashvili will be out for several weeks following his injury in that match. While Alisson is nearing a return, the manager admitted that fixture might come too soon for the Brazilian star, leaving Woodman to hold the fort.
Slot praised the foresight of the club’s recruitment team, noting that signing an experienced third-choice keeper like Woodman was done specifically for a “nightmare scenario” like this. “He has the experience to play at this level,” Slot told reporters, urging fans to get behind the goalkeeper at Anfield. The manager also shared positive news regarding defender Joe Gomez, who is fit to return to the squad.
Currently sitting fifth in the table with 55 points, Liverpool is in a tight race for Champions League qualification. Slot emphasized that his focus remains entirely on the game against a disciplined Crystal Palace side. With only a few games left in the season, Woodman’s performance could be the deciding factor in Liverpool’s quest for a top-five finish.