Liverpool vs West Ham Team News and Predicted Lineup for February 28

Anfield will be the stage for a pivotal Premier League encounter on February 28 as Liverpool welcome West Ham United, with Arne Slot’s side aiming to maintain momentum in their push for a top-four finish. The Reds’ 2025-26 campaign has been turbulent—shaken early on by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and later hampered by injuries and inconsistent form—yet recent results suggest belief is returning ahead of the season’s decisive stretch.

Liverpool edged past Nottingham Forest in their last outing, Alexis Mac Allister’s stoppage-time strike sealing a hard-fought victory at the City Ground. Slot again deployed a 4-2-3-1 shape, trusting Alisson between the posts and a back line of Dominik Szoboszlai, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, and Milos Kerkez. Mac Allister partnered Ryan Gravenberch in the double pivot, while Curtis Jones operated as the advanced midfielder behind lone striker Hugo Ekitike. Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo provided width from the flanks.

Kerkez, withdrawn after 80 minutes in Nottingham, is expected to keep his place at left-back. “He was completely fit,” Slot confirmed on Friday. “I changed it for Andy Robertson to inject fresh energy, but Milos is available and ready.”

The Dutch coach also delivered mixed news on the fitness front: Jeremie Frimpong has returned to full training and is in contention, but Florian Wirtz will miss out. “Every time a player isn’t available it’s a disappointment,” Slot said. “Florian had stayed fit for so long, but unfortunately he’s not ready. I honestly don’t know the timeline yet.”

With a Champions League last-16 first leg against Galatasaray looming on March 10, Liverpool cannot afford any slip-ups domestically. A win over the Hammers would strengthen their grip on fourth place and keep the feel-good factor alive ahead of a congested run-in.

Predicted Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Szoboszlai, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Gakpo; Ekitike.

Kickoff at Anfield is set for 8 p.m. GMT on Friday, February 28.