Liverpool lineup vs. Chelsea: Predicted XI for Premier League fixture after Florian Wirtz, Ibrahima Konate updates

Liverpool duo Ibrahima Konate and Florian Wirtz are expected to be given the green light for Saturday's Premier League battle with Chelsea at Anfield.

Neither man was seen in the Reds' training session on Wednesday, but Arne Slot revealed in his pre-game press conference that Wirtz was simply ill, while Konate was dealing with a personal matter, and both have since returned.

Further good news arrived in the shape of Giorgi Mamardashvili returning to training from a knee injury, but owing to his lack of preparation, Freddie Woodman could be retained in goal.

Alexander Isak is also only just back in training following a groin issue, so Cody Gakpo is the most probable striker starter, likely with Jeremie Frimpong, Rio Ngumoha and Wirtz - if fit enough - operating as his supporting cast.

A spot could open up for Ngumoha if Slot sacrifices Alexis Mac Allister, whose display in the 3-2 loss to Manchester United was lambasted, so Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch may form the double pivot.

Joe Gomez is on hand to deputise for Konate if need be, while Milos Kerkez is pushing to come back in for the departing Andy Robertson at left-back.

Hugo Ekitike (Achilles), Alisson Becker (unspecified), Mohamed Salah (thigh), Wataru Endo (ankle), Giovanni Leoni (knee) and Conor Bradley (knee) are all guaranteed absentees for the home side.

Liverpool possible starting lineup:

Woodman; Jones, Van Dijk, Konate, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Frimpong, Wirtz, Ngumoha; Gakpo

> Click here to see how Chelsea could line up against Liverpool