REDEMPTION SONG

LIVERPOOL will seek redemption when they host Crystal Palace in the League Cup last 16 at 9.45pm on Wednesday, having already suffered two defeats to the Eagles this season.

Palace beat them on penalties in the Community Shield after a 2-2 draw, then triumphed 2-1 in the Premier League thanks to Eddie Nketiah’s late strike.

That loss triggered Liverpool’s alarming slump – five defeats in six matches and four consecutive league losses – leaving the defending champions seventh on the log, seven points behind leaders Arsenal.

Manager Arne Slot will be without Alisson Becker, Jeremie Frimpong, and Giovanni Leoni due to injuries.

Ryan Gravenberch and Alexander Isak, who missed the weekend’s Pre loss to Brentford, are still being assessed for fitness, while Curtis Jones’ condition remains uncertain after being substituted during that match.

Forward Hugo Ekitike is available again after serving a one-match suspension for a red card against Southampton in the previous round.

In his matchday notes, Slot wysed: “Of course we have already faced Palace in the Premier League this season and the result on that occasion was not what we would have hoped for. Credit to Palace for that.

“Their winning goal came very late on that occasion after we had equalised following a difficult first half for us, so we should be aware not just of the problems they can cause, but also of their ability to keep going until the final whistle.”

Elsewhere, injuries to key Arsenal players could force baas Mikel Arteta to rotate against Brighton

Manchester City could rest Erling Haaland for their fourth-round tie at Swansea, while midfielder Rodri remains unavailable.

Newcastle host Tottenham, while Chelsea travel to Wolves on Wednesday.

Wednesday's League Cup fixtures:

Arsenal v Brighton, Swansea v Man City, Wolves v Chelsea (all 9.45pm), Newcastle v Tottenham (10pm)