Liverpool head coach Arne Slot addressed the media today to discuss the upcoming Champions League encounter against Azerbaijani champions Qarabag.

According to Offsideplus.az, the Reds are facing a significant defensive crisis as they prepare for the final league-phase match at Anfield. Slot confirmed that both Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez will be unavailable for the fixture, leaving Virgil van Dijk as the only senior center-back.

The manager noted that while Konate is away due to personal reasons, Gomez is sidelined with a knee injury sustained during the weekend's defeat to Bournemouth. Consequently, Slot admitted he might have to deploy a midfielder in an "unorthodox" defensive role to partner with Van Dijk. Despite these setbacks, a victory on Wednesday night would guarantee Liverpool’s automatic progression to the Round of 16.

Arne Slot also touched upon the future of Andy Robertson, expressing his expectation that the Scottish defender will remain at the club despite recent transfer rumors. He emphasized the importance of clinical finishing, noting that the team must improve their efficiency in the opposition box. Qarabag enters the match looking to make history, though they have historically struggled against English opposition.

The atmosphere at Anfield is expected to be electric as the Reds aim to silence recent "outside noise" following a dip in domestic form. Slot remains confident in his squad's ability to adapt and secure the necessary three points. This match marks the first-ever competitive meeting between these two clubs, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the European night.