Liverpool between Cup Triumph and League Autumn Storm

The recent cup victory of FC Liverpool against Brighton & Hove Albion could soon fade when the team, led by coach Arne Slot, faces Brighton again on Saturday - this time in the Premier League and on home turf at Anfield. Liverpool is currently in second place in the standings with 22 points from nine games, just behind the leading Manchester City. The gap to Brighton, which is currently in sixth place, is already six points. The recent 3-2 in the English League Cup showed both teams yet with a makeshift lineup. Coach Slot is not deceived by this: matches against the same opponent within a few days are not uncommon in football. "Especially since both teams did not compete in their strongest formations," says Slot. Nonetheless, the exchange of some players remains a decisive factor that could significantly influence the upcoming duel. Injuries to Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa force Slot to be creative. In the match against Brighton, midfielders Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai moved into more offensive roles, while Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz scored from the wing positions. Even though Slot prefers a "true number nine," this offers temporary tactical flexibility. Looking back, Slot at least provides positive injury updates: both Jota and goalkeeper Alisson are on the verge of their comebacks after the international break, although predicting specific dates remains difficult. Chiesa, on the other hand, could soon resume parts of training - a glimmer of hope for the Reds.