Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to make a quicker-than-anticipated return from injury, alleviating Arne Slot's initial concerns.
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Alexander-Arnold picked up thigh injury vs BournemouthReplaced by Conor Bradley in the 70th minuteMedical scans showed that injury is not seriousFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
During the Premier League clash between Liverpool and Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium, Alexander-Arnold was substituted in the 70th minute after experiencing discomfort in his thigh. The 26-year-old right-back immediately gestured to the bench, signalling that he could not continue, prompting Conor Bradley to take his place on the pitch. However, according to further medical evaluations have ruled out a major injury, indicating that he may not be sidelined for an extended period. Despite the encouraging prognosis, Liverpool's medical team are unlikely to take any risks with Alexander-Arnold’s fitness ahead of the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie against Tottenham on Thursday.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportWHAT ARNE SLOT HAD SAID
After the victory against Bournemouth, Liverpool manager Slot offered an update on Alexander-Arnold: "The situation was that he said to me, 'You have to take me off' and he sat on the floor, and we took him off. He felt something, I can't tell you exactly what and how bad it is of course, because we are one hour after the game, but it is never a good sign if a player is asking for a substitution. This is not a fact, but I would be surprised if he plays on Thursday, but let's hope he is back with us as soon as possible."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
While Liverpool fans will be relieved by the news of Alexander-Arnold will be back on the pitch sooner than expected, his long-term future at Anfield remains in question. His current contract is set to expire this summer, and Real Madrid have expressed strong interest in securing his signature. Los Blancos were eager to bring him to the Santiago Bernabeu during the January transfer window, but Liverpool swiftly rejected their initial approach, making it clear that he was not available for transfer mid-season.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR LIVERPOOL?
Liverpool are currently preparing for a packed schedule, with crucial fixtures across multiple competitions. After facing Tottenham, the Reds will turn their attention to an FA Cup fourth-round tie against Plymouth Argyle on Sunday. The highly anticipated Merseyside derby against Everton on February 12 will also be a key test in their Premier League title push.
