Liverpool’s Diogo Jota a Doubt for Brentford Clash After Injury Concern

Midweek Heroics Followed by Fitness Doubts

Liverpool forward Diogo Jota faces a race against time to be fit for Saturday’s Premier League showdown against Brentford. The 28-year-old Portuguese international scored a crucial equaliser just 22 seconds after coming off the bench in Liverpool’s midweek draw against Nottingham Forest. However, Jota’s appearance was marred by a fresh fitness concern, forcing him to miss training on Thursday.

Jota’s goal at The City Ground marked his fifth Premier League strike this season, but injuries have once again disrupted his campaign. Over the past two seasons, he has missed 50 matches due to various muscle issues and a knee ligament injury. Under manager Arne Slot, Jota has already been absent for 12 games this term.

Arne Slot’s Update on Jota’s Condition

Addressing the media ahead of the trip to Brentford, Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that Jota experienced discomfort during his substitute appearance against Forest.

“There is no doubt about the fact Jota is an important player for us, but he wasn’t on the training ground yesterday, so that means we have to see today where he is,” Slot explained. “It’s not certain he will be available for tomorrow. We have to wait and see today.”

Slot revealed that Jota felt a niggle during his half-hour cameo but managed to complete the game. However, the forward reported discomfort afterward, leading the medical staff to take precautions.

Managing Jota’s Fitness

When asked about the club’s approach to managing Jota’s recurring injuries, Slot emphasized that Liverpool tailors individual fitness programs for all players, including Jota.

“Not because it’s Jota, but I think every player has an individual programme,” Slot said. “Of course, there is an eye on him doing some individual work to prevent him from getting injuries, but that is not only with him; it’s the same for all the others.

“There is a special programme for him, as there is for every single player, but 80 or 90% of it is the same for everyone.”

Liverpool’s Brentford Preparations

Liverpool currently sit atop the Premier League table and face a tricky test away at Brentford. Should Jota be unavailable, Slot may need to rely on other attacking options to maintain their momentum at the summit.