'He wasn't able to play' - Liverpool boss Arne Slot gives update on Florian Wirtz's late withdrawal from win over Nottingham Forest

React to this story

Liverpool suffered a big blow ahead of their Premier League win against Nottingham Forest as Florian pulled out of the starting line-up at the last minute after appearing to suffer an injury in the warm-up. The influential German playmaker was seen talking to a member of Liverpool's staff as the team returned down the tunnel, and he was replaced in Arne Slot's starting XI by Curtis Jones.

Highlights: Wirtz shines as Liverpool claim crucial win against Newcastle

Video credit: TNT Sports

Florian Wirtz pulled out of Liverpool’s starting line-up for their 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest after appearing to suffer an injury in the warm-up, with Arne Slot saying "he wasn't able to play."

The German completed most of the team’s preparations at the City Ground, but was seen speaking to a member of Liverpool’s staff as the players returned down the tunnel.

The 22-year-old was replaced in Liverpool’s line-up by Curtis Jones, ending his run of 14 consecutive starts in the Premier League.

Transfers

Salah set for Trabzonspor as club confirm negotiations and arrival in Turkey

15 hours ago

The only other league game Wirtz has missed this season was the home clash with Forest, which Arne Slot’s side lost 3-0.

It appeared to be a serious blow for the Reds, with Wirtz having established himself as an influential part of the side after starting taking to life slowly in England following his high-profile move from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer.

The attacking midfielder has scored six goals in his last 13 appearances in all competitions, having waited until the end of December to get off the mark for his new club.

Wirtz gives Qarabag keeper 'no chance' to double Liverpool's lead

Video credit: TNT Sports

Discussing Wirtz's absence, Slot explained after the match: "We tried it in the warm-up, and he wasn't able to play. The good thing is there is a week to go until the next game."

It is the latest injury setback for Slot, who is without Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong, Wataru Endo and Giovanni Leoni.

Liverpool ultimately coped with the loss of the German and earned three points at the City Ground which saw them climb level on points with Chelsea and Manchester United in their fight to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.

The Blues slipped up on Saturday as they conceded late to be held to a point by Burnley, while United visit Everton on Monday.

Stream the Premier League, Men’s and Women’s FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League and more on TNT Sports and discovery+

Transfers