“I don't know how long, but he'll be out for a good while” - Arne Slot confirms major Liverpool injury blow following West Ham United triumph

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that Joe Gomez will be out 'for a good while'. This comes after the 26-year-old defender had to leave the pitch injured against West Ham United.

In the first half of their 5-0 win over the Hammers at the London Stadium on December 29, Joe Gomez fell to the turf (37'). He was eventually replaced by Jarell Quansah in central defense. Quansah played well and the Reds went on to beat the Hammers and consolidate their lead at the top of the Premier League table.

Arne Slot confirmed that it would be a while before Joe Gomez can return to playing, telling the press (via Tribal Football):

"If a player says stop, he has to be replaced. We all know it was a strain and we know it will take a while for him to be back. I don't know how long but he'll be out for a good while. Something like that happens over the course of a season."

Joe Gomez has played 16 games in all appearances for the Reds this season, picking up just two yellow cards. Most of his appearances have come off the bench, with the English defender making the starting lineup just six times in the Premier League.

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Arne Slot shares delight in Liverpool's impressive 5-0 win over West Ham

Arne Slot was pleased with Liverpool's 5-0 triumph over West Ham, as his team provided a comprehensive performance to seal the win in style. Luis Diaz opened the scoring (30') before Cody Gakpo doubled the lead 10 minutes later (40'). Mohamed Salah added the third in the 44th minute.

By the second half, Liverpool were fully in control and they showed their dominance with more goals. Trent Alexander-Arnold found the net with an effort from range (54') while Diogo Jota completed the rout in the 84th minute.

Speaking about each goal being scored by a different person, Arne Slot said (via the club's official website):

"I like to see this because if you only rely on one player when it comes to goals that is mostly not really helpful, although it's also nice to have one that scores a lot.

"But then to see that others score goals and threatening the other goal as well is pleasing to see. It's not only the one that scores the goal, I think the lead-up towards the goal is also very positive from our point of view."

Liverpool have racked up 45 points from just 18 matches this season. They are 12 points ahead of Nottingham Forest, who are in second, with 37 points from 19 league games.