Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola faces a delicate balancing act as his side prepares to kick off their domestic cup campaign. The Merseyside club welcomes Tottenham Hotspur to Anfield for a high-stakes Carabao Cup tie scheduled for 8pm BST on Tuesday, September 15, 2026.
The fixture arrives at a critical juncture of the domestic calendar, forcing the coaching staff to weigh the demands of heavy squad rotation against the absolute need to maintain control on the pitch. While tactical adjustments are guaranteed, injuries and fitness milestones across the squad will heavily influence the starting XI that takes the turf under the Anfield lights.
Here is a complete breakdown of the latest team news, expected tactical shifts, and squad availability ahead of the Carabao Cup clash.
Joe Gomez Returns as Squad Rotation Takes Center Stage
Liverpool have Joe Gomez back, and that matters for a backline that has navigated early-season fitness hurdles.
Manager Andoni Iraola kept it simple when discussing the centre-back’s status during his pre-match media commitments. “Joe is training with the team and is available for tomorrow. That assessment highlights a dual reality: Gomez is fit enough to feature, but the medical and coaching staff will manage his minutes carefully to prevent any setbacks.”
Beyond the defense, sweeping changes are anticipated across the pitch. In a domestic cup tie, utilizing squad depth remains a logical move to keep the wider roster sharp.
Midfield and attacking areas will likely showcase several emerging faces. Wataru Endo is one name to watch closely; he has yet to feature this season despite being named among the substitutes, and this fixture presents a natural opening for his first minutes.
Selection Dilemmas Up Front and Injury Absences
Liverpool’s options further forward are slightly restricted due to ongoing fitness issues. Hugo Ekitike remains unavailable, which leaves Alexander Isak as the only senior centre-forward in the immediate selection pool. While Cody Gakpo can provide cover centrally, the lack of traditional depth up top could shape Iraola’s tactical thinking. Bradley Barcola may also come in again if the head coach wants more attacking thrust from his newer arrivals, balancing the need to give youth a chance without sacrificing control of the tie.
Defensive depth remains a work in progress elsewhere on the treatment table. Conor Bradley is not ready yet, although he has started working with the ball following knee surgery, representing clear progress in his rehabilitation.
As kickoff approaches at Anfield, both clubs will finalize their tactical setups ahead of what promises to be a fiercely contested cup encounter. Share your thoughts on the expected lineup and join the conversation in the comments below.
