Liverpool tackles Anfield queue chaos as Gomez and Frimpong injuries loom; FSG set for £1.3 billion windfall

Liverpool is expanding security resources and coordinating with fan groups to speed entry at Anfield after multiple games saw thousands miss kick-offs due to lengthy security searches, according to Liverpool Confidential and other outlets. The club says it is working with Spirit of Shankly to curb the delays while maintaining safety under enhanced protocols tied to Martyn's Law, the 2025 legislation named after Martyn Hett.

Supporters have faced long queues around the Main Stand entrance, with some reporting that arrivals must occur earlier than the 10-minute pre-kick guideline. Fans described the concourses as not a place to wait for 30 minutes in cold weather, especially when the team has struggled on the pitch. Liverpool says it has bulked up resources and is seeking a middle ground with fans to improve throughput without compromising safety.

As part of safety planning for away trips, Liverpool is sharing safety procedures with fans ahead of next month's match in Marseille, not to wear club colours, travel together by police escort, and be held at full-time for about 40 minutes. The club says it will coordinate with local authorities and contact wheelchair users in advance. This aligns with broader concerns raised by Newcastle and UEFA about away support safety, and Liverpool has warned fans to be mindful of security expectations in the old port area.

Injury news: Joe Gomez is likely to miss the trip to Tottenham after a hamstring injury sustained against Brighton. Dominik Szoboszlai is expected to be fit after an ankle knock; he had started every Premier League game until his 83rd-minute substitution and is one yellow card away from a one-match ban. Jeremie Frimpong hopes to join full training in the coming days after missing nearly two months with a hamstring problem.

Meanwhile, Liverpool's academy produced notable success this week, with Shamal George winning the Scottish League Cup with St Mirren. Harry Wilson is in strong form for Fulham, and former academy players continue to feature prominently in the wider game, including James Milner and Jordan Henderson. Ranel Young has agreed a deal to sign for Bristol City after a brief spell in Serbia, while Reading added Reds academy midfielder Scofield Lonmeni. Left back Luke Chambers returned to action off the bench in a friendly, potentially affecting January plans depending on his fitness.

Fenway Sports Group is anticipated to receive a significant windfall as the Pittsburgh Penguins near a sale to Hoffmann Family of Companies, potentially valuing the franchise at around £1.35 billion. If approved, the deal would be a timely boost for Liverpool's owners after a roughly £450 million summer outlay and could influence January activity. FSG still owns the Boston Red Sox, NASCAR's RFK Racing, and Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy's TGL golf venture.

This update reflects ongoing efforts to balance safety and fan experience with strategic planning as Liverpool navigates a crowded winter schedule and a changing financial landscape.