Arne Slot has confirmed Diogo Jota will not be available for Liverpool’s trip to Arsenal on Sunday.
The Portugal international has been Slot’s preferred option to lead the line for much of the season so far with four goals and two assists in 10 appearances.
Named in the starting XI last week at home to Chelsea, Jota was forced off after 30 minutes after a collision with Blues defender Tosin Adarabioyo.
He subsequently missed the midweek Champions League victory over RB Leipzig – with his replacement Darwin Nunez getting on the score sheet.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Slot confirmed Jota will have no role to play when his side head to north London with Federico Chiesa and Conor Bradley also still major doubts.
Asked about the trio, Slot told reporters: ‘They feel good but not when it comes to playing for us at the weekend.
‘Federico might train with us today or tomorrow but Diogo definitely not. With Conor Bradley, let’s see if he can be with us tomorrow.’
Liverpool will also be without first choice Alisson Becker who is still recovering from a hamstring injury. The Brazil international is not expected to be available again until after November’s international break.
Asked about Alisson’s progress, Slot added: ‘He’s progressing well, like we expect. But it’s not a short-term recovery.
‘It’s always difficult to judge him. I think the best way to judge an injury is in the end of an injury, the end phase of his rehab, and he’s not there yet.
‘I can’t tell you how much longer he will be out, but don’t expect him to be in against Brighton in the cup or next week.’
Liverpool sit top of the Premier League ahead of their trip to the capital, one point ahead of Manchester City who host Southampton on Saturday.
Arsenal are four points behind them in third after last week’s defeat at Bournemouth.
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