Joe Gomez Returns for Liverpool's Carabao Cup Clash Against Tottenham

Joe Gomez is finally back. And Liverpool might just need him.

The England defender has been passed fit for Liverpool’s Carabao Cup third-round tie against Tottenham at Anfield on Tuesday night, ending a frustrating spell on the sidelines after a muscle strain in July kept him out of the opening weeks of the season.

Manager Andoni Iraola confirmed Gomez’s return on Monday, but stopped short of guaranteeing a full outing.

“Joe is training with the team and is available for tomorrow. It's a matter of deciding how much he can play,” the Spaniard said, leaving the door open to a managed comeback rather than an all-action 90 minutes.

Mamardashvili in, changes coming

One decision is already made. Giorgi Mamardashvili will start in goal, with Alisson Becker given the night off. It’s a significant opportunity for the Georgian, who steps into one of the most scrutinised roles in English football.

And he will not be the only fresh face.

Iraola hinted at a reshaped XI, teasing the prospect of a much-altered side by suggesting “we will see tomorrow players we haven't seen”. That line alone will have the club’s academy graduates and fringe players on alert.

Wataru Endo stands near the front of that queue. The Japanese midfielder has been on the bench but has yet to play a single minute this season. A domestic cup tie at Anfield, under the lights, is exactly the kind of stage where a seasoned international can quietly lay down a marker.

Youngsters ready to step in

Rio Ngumoha is pushing hard for a start after coming off the bench in the second half against Fulham. His cameo there has nudged him into contention, and this competition has often been the launchpad for Liverpool’s next wave.

Trey Nyoni and Lewis Koumas are also in the frame to make their first starts of the campaign, having only featured as substitutes so far. For them, this isn’t just rotation. It’s an audition.

If Iraola leans into youth, Anfield could see a bold, energetic side built around hungry prospects and returning squad players. If he leans towards experience, the shape of the team changes again.

Barcola, Isak and the attacking puzzle

Bradley Barcola sits at the crossroads of that decision. The forward could be handed his third start in a week if Iraola decides his new signings need rhythm more than rest. That would give Liverpool a sharper edge in the final third against Premier League opposition.

Up front, the picture is clear but thin. With Hugo Ekitike still sidelined, Alexander Isak is the only senior out-and-out striker available. Cody Gakpo can operate through the middle if required, but the responsibility to lead the line naturally falls on Isak.

That lack of depth may influence how bold Iraola feels he can be with his selection and in-game changes. One injury or early setback could force his hand.

Bradley steps up rehab, but still out

There was at least one encouraging update on the injury front. Conor Bradley will not feature, but Iraola confirmed the full-back has begun working with the ball again after knee surgery. It’s a step forward, just not one that comes in time for Tottenham’s visit.

Hugo Ekitike, Leoni, Bradley and Federico Chiesa all remain unavailable, trimming options across the pitch and adding extra weight to the performances of those who do get the nod.

How Liverpool could line up

Liverpool are expected to set up in a 4-2-3-1, with chances scattered across the squad:

Predicted Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1): Mamardashvili; Frimpong, Araujo, van Dijk, Tsimikas; Mac Allister, Endo; Ngumoha, Nyoni, Munoz; Isak

Kick-off is at 8pm BST on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at Anfield. A cup tie under the lights, a returning defender, a goalkeeper with a point to prove, and a clutch of youngsters waiting for their moment — Iraola’s selection will say plenty about how he intends to shape this Liverpool side for the months ahead.