Liverpool are carefully managing player workloads during a demanding stretch of fixtures, manager Arne Slot said ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup fourth-round clash with Brighton & Hove Albion.

Midfielder Wataru Endo picked up an injury in Wednesday’s 1-0 win over Sunderland, adding to a growing absentee list that already includes defenders Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong.

“We have three clear priorities: FA Cup, Champions League qualification and Champions League,” Slot told reporters at Anfield on Friday.

“We are also aware of the limited options, so load management is important. The last thing we need is another injury, so that is always the tough thing for a manager — to make the best decision every time. It wouldn’t be the first time a player gets injured if they have to play three games in seven days.

“Most important thing is we train today, listen to the players, see how they feel and make the best decisions.”

Slot confirmed Endo is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury and suggested academy players could feature against Brighton.

“I am always looking at the younger players. A few of them are closer and closer to first-team football,” he said.

Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni have already gained senior experience, and Slot indicated matches like this could offer further opportunities — though he stressed the need for balance.

“We play a strong team and who to play is something to think about,” he added.

Liverpool currently sit sixth in the Premier League with 42 points from 26 matches, 13 behind leaders Arsenal. They have also secured a direct place in the Champions League playoffs after finishing inside the top eight.