Liverpool’s quest for silverware this season takes a hit as star defender Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to miss the EFL Cup final against Chelsea. The setback stems from a recurring knee injury, raising concerns for Liverpool’s preparations for the crucial Wembley clash on February 25.
Alexander-Arnold, a linchpin in Liverpool’s defensive lineup, exited the Burnley match at half-time due to knee pain, echoing a previous ligament injury that sidelined him in January. While the club hasn’t specified his recovery timeline, a return for the EFL Cup final seems unlikely.
Facing pivotal fixtures against Manchester City and Everton in March, Liverpool grapples with selection challenges exacerbated by uncertainties around players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Thiago Alcantara, along with the confirmed absence of Joel Matip.
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In response to Alexander-Arnold’s injury, Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez vie for the right-back spot against Brentford. The return of Mo Salah from injury offers a glimmer of hope amid the ongoing crisis.
The recurrence of Alexander-Arnold’s knee issue raises alarms, given Klopp’s cautious reintegration of the defender. Liverpool, amid Premier League, FA Cup, and EFL Cup commitments, faces fixture congestion, with key clashes against Luton and a critical EFL Cup final awaiting. Klopp must now strategize to cope with the absence of a key defender as Liverpool navigates a demanding phase of the season.