Liverpool XI vs Leeds: Possible lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest for Premier League today, Gakpo return; Szoboszlai in for Jones, Arne Slot handed key selection boost for first game of 2026 at Anfield…

Liverpool’s XI against Leeds: Expected lineup, confirmed team updates, and injury news for today’s Premier League match.

Liverpool’s anticipated starting lineup against Leeds United features two changes, yet a ‘well-below par’ player retains his position.

Expected Liverpool formation for the match against Leeds United: Gakpo returns; Szoboszlai replaces Jones.

Significant selection advantage for his first match of 2026 at Anfield.

Dominik Szoboszlai will return for today’s Premier League encounter with Leeds.

The Hungarian midfielder was absent during Saturday’s tense 2-1 victory at home against Wolves due to a suspension after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season against Tottenham.

Szoboszlai’s comeback is a major boost for Arne Slot as he prepares for what promises to be a tough opening game of 2026 at Anfield this evening.

Leeds, who recently held Liverpool to a 3-3 draw at Elland Road less than a month ago, continue to face several player absences.

The Reds are still without their star striker Alexander Isak, who is sidelined with a fractured leg sustained in the match against Spurs. The British record signing of £125 million is anticipated to be out for several months.

Mohamed Salah is participating in the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt, and neither Wataru Endo nor Joe Gomez is expected to return for at least a couple of weeks, while Giovanni Leoni is out due to a long-term knee injury.

Endo is dealing with an ankle issue, while Gomez is facing a muscular problem.

Szoboszlai has been one of Liverpool’s standout players this season and is almost certain to be reinstated in the lineup against Leeds.

It is probable that Federico Chiesa, who had a rare start against Wolves, will revert to the bench.

Chiesa has had limited playing time this season and, despite showing promise in brief appearances, it seems Slot has not completely relied on him as a starter.

Cody Gakpo is back to fitness but has only played 10 minutes since early December, so he is likely to be utilized as an impact substitute once again.

Slot must choose between Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley for the right-back position.

Liverpool has secured victories in five of their last seven matches and currently sits in fourth place in the Premier League standings as they approach the New Year.

Projected Liverpool Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Jones; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Wirtz; Ekitike

Injuries: Leoni, Isak, Endo, Gomez

Unavailable: Salah (AFCON)

Kick-off: 5:30pm GMT on Thursday, January 1, 2026

Location: Anfield, Liverpool

Viewing options: Sky Sports