Arne Slot Confirms Two Liverpool Stars are Sidelined Through Injury | OneFootball

Liverpool Injury Update: Arne Slot Provides Clarity on Alexander-Arnold and Morton

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has provided an important injury update ahead of the club’s upcoming fixtures, shedding light on the fitness of vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold and midfielder Tyler Morton.

Alexander-Arnold’s Recovery Timeline

Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was forced off during the second half of last weekend’s Premier League victory over AFC Bournemouth, remains sidelined. The right-back also missed Liverpool’s Carabao Cup triumph against Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday night, and his recovery timeline remains uncertain.

Slot confirmed that Sunday’s Emirates FA Cup clash with Plymouth Argyle will come too soon for Alexander-Arnold. When asked about his availability, Slot stated in his pre-match press conference, “No, I don’t think so yet. That’s going to be too early for him.”

Looking ahead to the highly anticipated Merseyside derby next Wednesday, Slot added, “Difficult to say [about the derby]. Like I said before, it’s not going to take months and not even weeks but that’s only three days after the Plymouth Argyle game, so let’s wait and see if he is available.”

Photo: IMAGO

While the short turnaround between fixtures presents a challenge, Slot emphasised the importance of long-term fitness. “We also have to look at the long term, of course we don’t want to take any risks with so many games afterwards coming up. But if he’s fit then of course we will use him,” he added.

Morton Faces Extended Absence

In addition to Alexander-Arnold’s injury, Slot delivered concerning news regarding midfielder Tyler Morton. The young talent has suffered a shoulder injury, which will see him sidelined for an extended period.

“He will be out for weeks or maybe even longer,” Slot revealed, indicating that Morton’s recovery could stretch well into the season. The absence of Morton adds to Liverpool’s midfield challenges, particularly as the club navigates a packed fixture schedule.

Photo: IMAGO

Squad Depth and Tactical Adjustments

With both Alexander-Arnold and Morton unavailable, Slot will need to rely on the depth of his squad to maintain momentum. The absence of Alexander-Arnold, in particular, could prompt tactical adjustments, as his influence in Liverpool’s attacking play and set-piece situations is well-documented.

Liverpool’s upcoming matches will test the team’s resilience and adaptability, with Slot carefully balancing immediate performance needs against the long-term fitness of key players.

Eyes on the Merseyside Derby

As Liverpool fans eagerly await the Merseyside derby, the potential return of Alexander-Arnold remains a focal point. Slot’s cautious approach suggests that any decision regarding his inclusion will be made with the broader season in mind.

For now, Liverpool continues to push forward under Slot’s guidance, aiming to maintain their competitive edge across all competitions.