Joe Gomez Injury Update – February 2026
Liverpool defender Joe Gomez is nearing a return from an injury that has kept him sidelined in recent weeks, but his availability remains uncertain ahead of key Premier League fixtures. Head coach Arne Slot has provided multiple updates this month that shed light on where the England international currently stands in his recovery process.
Gomez was withdrawn from action last month after picking up a hip injury during Liverpool’s defeat at AFC Bournemouth. Since then, he has missed several matches in all competitions and has been working intensively with the club’s medical staff to regain fitness ahead of the congested fixture schedule.
According to an injury report published on February 10, 2026, Gomez was expected to resume team training on Tuesday for the first time since his injury, a key step that puts him in contention as a late fitness call for Liverpool’s midweek trip to Sunderland. As of that update, he had not yet trained with the first team, but expected to do so on the day of the press conference — suggesting he was close to making his first steps back toward competitive action.
However, in the immediate aftermath of that press briefing, Slot indicated that Gomez would not be able to replace suspended midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai at right-back for the Sunderland match. Despite being close to full fitness, he was not included in the matchday squad, which points to a cautious approach from the coaching staff in managing his return.
Earlier reports suggested that Slot had hoped Gomez might train and even be available from the bench, but as of that point he remained questionable for selection. The club’s wider defensive injury situation — including absences at right-back for Jeremie Frimpong (hamstring) and Conor Bradley (season-ending knee injury) — has compounded the challenge for Liverpool. Depending on Gomez’s readiness, midfield options and less natural defenders are being considered for wide defensive roles.
It’s also worth noting that the injury Gomez sustained in December 2025 was not an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, but a muscle/impact injury that initially seemed to keep him out for a shorter period. Over time, the club has had to manage his recovery carefully, mindful of previous setbacks Gomez has endured earlier in his career.
Slot’s broader comments this week have acknowledged Liverpool’s fragile defensive depth, remarking on the difficulties of fielding a consistent back line amid multiple absences — and that makes Gomez’s recovery even more important for the team’s hopes this season. Whether he returns fully fit or is gradually eased back into action remains a crucial detail for Liverpool’s run-in.
In summary, Joe Gomez is on the brink of returning to training and potentially first-team involvement, but as of the latest updates, the defender remains questionable for imminent fixtures and has not yet regained a starting role. Liverpool are likely to continue managing his minutes carefully as they balance immediate needs with ensuring his long-term fitness.
