Liverpool faced a setback as Trent Alexander-Arnold sustained a knee injury during their recent triumph over Arsenal, ruling him out for the crucial first game of the semi-final against Fulham.
Despite leading the team to victory in the FA Cup’s third round, Alexander-Arnold struggled against Arsenal, and subsequent tests revealed a torn lateral ligament in his knee.
Assistant manager Pep Lijnders disclosed that the influential right back would be sidelined for approximately three weeks, underscoring his significance in creating scoring opportunities for the team.
Although Liverpool experienced a defeat, there is a silver lining as they enjoy a break until January 21, following the first leg of the League Cup semi-final.
This respite allows them time to regroup and recover before their next competitive fixture. Conor Bradley, who displayed proficiency against Arsenal, emerges as a potential replacement for the injured Alexander-Arnold.
On a positive note, Lijnders confirmed the return of Virgil van Dijk for the upcoming game against Fulham, as the defender overcame an illness and resumed training on Monday. Van Dijk’s presence is anticipated to bolster Liverpool’s defense and provide a boost in their pursuit of success.
While Alexander-Arnold’s injury occurred at an unfortunate juncture, the current break in Liverpool’s schedule offers an opportunity for the team to regain full strength. Lijnders expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to bounce back, emphasizing the importance of this downtime for strategic recovery and preparation.
