Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley suffered a severe knee injury in the 0-0 draw with Arsenal and is unlikely to play for the rest of the season, with surgery planned in the coming days.

Bradley, who had returned from a hamstring issue to make 21 appearances this season, faced potential implications for Northern Ireland’s World Cup hopes if they reach the play-offs.

Liverpool stated there is no fixed return timeline as Bradley undergoes surgery and begins rehabilitation after the operation.

The FA Cup remains important, and Monday’s team selection is expected to feature familiar players from Arsenal’s match, with possible changes but no wholesale rotation.

If Hugo Ekitike is available, Slot would consider him as one of the options, signaling that the Barnsley cup tie is treated as more than a routine fixture.

Regulars like Andy Robertson, Federico Chiesa, and Joe Gomez are expected to feature, with Rio Ngumoha possibly earning a start based on earlier performance.

Past cup decisions, including multiple changes against Plymouth and Crystal Palace, are cited to explain how resting players previously contributed to current squad constraints.

Several first-team players, including Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai, are likely to be rested to protect them for upcoming fixtures.

Other defenders who could step in include Ruairi McConville, Brodie Spencer, Terry Devlin (now a right-back for his club), and Ethan Galbraith as a ball-playing midfielder to cover central roles if needed.

Mohamed Salah’s recent playing time fits into broader squad rotation and fitness considerations.

Barnsley sit 17th in League One, and Slot warns against underestimating them, noting a different challenge from previous cup matches and the risk of upsets.

Liverpool will take the FA Cup tie seriously against Barnsley, treating them as a strong opponent despite the league mismatch.