Liverpool’s Diogo Jota Sidelined Until After November International Break

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that forward Diogo Jota will be sidelined with a rib injury until after the November international break. The Portugal international, who has missed Liverpool’s past two fixtures, was substituted during the team’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea on October 20 following a collision with defender Tosin Adarabioyo. Jota has not yet resumed training. The 27-year-old is expected to miss a minimum of four upcoming matches across all competitions, with the international break scheduled from November 11 to 19. Regarding player availability, Slot stated, “Conor [Bradley] is training with us again so maybe he could be in the squad [for Wednesday’s trip to Brighton in the Carabao Cup].” He further added, “Jota not, Alisson not, Harvey Elliott not and Federico [Chiesa] not.” When questioned about Jota’s potential return before the international break, Slot responded, “No, it will be after that. Elliott the same.” Liverpool is also scheduled to play Brighton in the Premier League at Anfield on Saturday. Subsequently, The Reds will host Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, followed by Aston Villa’s visit to Merseyside, all before the international break commences. Liverpool’s initial match following the break is an away game against newly promoted Southampton on November 24. Goalkeeper Alisson has been absent for the past fortnight due to a hamstring injury, while Elliott is currently sidelined with a fractured foot. Chiesa, a summer signing from Juventus, has made only three appearances for The Reds this season.