Joyce: Even a strong performance vs PSV may not secure Gomez a place in Slot’s long-term plans
A fresh and uncomfortable dilemma has emerged this week as preparations continue for our Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven.
Gomez’s future unclear despite possible start
Paul Joyce of The Times reports that Joe Gomez is entering a critical stage of his Liverpool career, noting that he has “played only 43 minutes in the Premier League this season.” Joyce directly questions: “If the manager doesn’t trust him to strengthen this defence during an injury crisis, then what exactly is his role at the club?”
Gomez may be drafted in on Wednesday due to the lack of available defenders, yet Joyce highlights the real concern: “He could feature against PSV… but will he actually be rewarded if he performs well?”
It’s a pertinent issue, particularly as the 28-year-old has made just seven appearances across all competitions this season, with only two starts — both coming in the League Cup.
Under Jurgen Klopp, Gomez proved capable of playing anywhere across the back line, making his current absence from the Premier League picture even more striking.
That point was further emphasised when Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones were preferred at right-back against Nottingham Forest in the absence of Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong.
Adding to the complexity is the fact that Gomez recently said he is “happy at Liverpool” — but only when he is playing regularly. Right now, that isn’t happening, and Wednesday may be one of his few opportunities to remind Slot of his value.
Right-back options under scrutiny after Forest loss
Calvin Ramsay is another player left frustrated after being overlooked at the weekend.
His impressive performance in the League Cup win over Crystal Palace — where Slot described him as “calm” and showing “composure” — suggested he was edging his way back into contention.
But neither Ramsay nor Gomez were selected to start against Forest, forcing Szoboszlai into an unfamiliar defensive role instead of operating further forward, where he’s at his best.
The 3-0 defeat — only the fourth time a visiting team has won by three or more goals at Anfield in the Premier League era — has only intensified the scrutiny of Liverpool’s defensive decision-making.
As we approach the PSV match, this is no longer just a question of rotation. It’s a matter of trust, hierarchy, and whether Gomez truly has a place in Slot’s long-term plans.
And if he impresses yet still finds himself back on the bench, Joyce’s question will become even more glaring for everyone connected with the club.
