Arne Slot shares worrying Giovanni Leoni update after Liverpool win vs Southampton
Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces a potentially huge injury worry to defender Giovanni Leoni.
Alexander Isak‘s first goal for Liverpool helped the Reds secure a place in the next round of the Carabao Cup at the expense of Southampton.
Despite a leveller from the Saints in the second half, Hugo Ekitike’s fine start to life at Liverpool continued with the Frenchman netting the winning goal.
Ekitike was given a second yellow card for his celebration, but Slot faces a greater concern in how long Leoni may be on the sidelines for.
Arne Slot provides Geovanni Leoni update
Geovanni Leoni joined Liverpool from Parma in the summer and made his debut for the club against Southampton after not featuring in any of the previous six fixtures.
The Italian though could now be faced with a spell on the side lines after being forced off with injury in the second half.
After the match, Slot told ITV Football, 23 September,: “If a player goes off like that it’s not a good sign.
“We have to wait and see what it is but usually it’s not positive.”
Leoni had enjoyed an impressive debut and the 18-year-old is seen as a player with high potential for the future.
Liverpool short of centre-back options
Liverpool’s failed pursuit of Marc Guehi during the transfer window, means an injury to Leoni is not ideal in his centre-back ranks.
Another injury in the position could be disastrous for Slot, and he will be hoping Leoni is not out for the long-term.
| Minutes Played | 81 |
| Touches | 102 |
| Percentage of Accurate Passes | 97% |
| Ariel duels won | 3 |
| Clearances | 6 |
Slot also also issues in defence at full-back with summer signings Milos Kerkez and Jermie Frimpong not yet living up to expectations.
Liverpool have only kept two clean sheets in all competitions this season, and Slot will need that to improve if the Reds are to land major silverware.