Joyce reports that Gomez might still be out of Slot’s long-term plans, even if he performs well against PSV.

There’s another uncomfortable talking point ahead of our Champions League clash with PSV: Joe Gomez’s uncertain future under Arne Slot.

Gomez’s role in doubt despite possible start

Paul Joyce notes that Gomez has played only 43 Premier League minutes this season and bluntly questions where he fits in Slot’s plans: If the manager won’t trust him even during an injury crisis, what role does he actually have?

Although he may be given a rare start on Wednesday due to the lack of defensive options, Joyce wonders whether a good performance would even matter, given Gomez has made just seven appearances this term, with only two starts—both in the League Cup. This is a stark contrast to his versatility under Jurgen Klopp, who used him across all four defensive positions.

The situation looked even more puzzling when Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones were played at right-back against Forest ahead of him, despite injuries to Bradley and Frimpong.

Gomez has said he’s happy at Liverpool as long as he’s playing—but he isn’t. Wednesday might be his only chance to remind Slot of his value.

Right-back issues highlighted after Forest loss

Calvin Ramsay also has reason to feel frustrated. After impressing against Crystal Palace in the League Cup—with Slot praising his composure—he was still overlooked at the weekend. Neither he nor Gomez were trusted, forcing Szoboszlai to fill in again instead of playing further forward.

The 3-0 defeat to Forest only intensified scrutiny, marking just the fourth time a visiting Premier League team has beaten Liverpool by three or more at Anfield.

As PSV approaches, this is no longer just about rotation—it’s about trust, squad hierarchy, and whether Gomez is still part of the long-term vision.

If he performs well yet still loses his place, Joyce’s question will only become louder.