Does Trent Alexander-Arnold immediately return to the Liverpool team? Our writers have their say.
Liverpool hopes to have Trent Alexander-Arnold recovered in time for the Premier League match against Brighton at Anfield on March 31.
The Reds‘ vice-captain has been out since re-injuring his knee during Liverpool‘s 3-1 victory against Burnley at Anfield in early February.
Alexander-Arnold had to be replaced at half-time after the situation worsened. He had previously been out for three weeks due to the condition.
His return will come as a boost for Liverpool but also a dilemma for Jurgen Klopp, who has Conor Bradley working well at right-back, Joe Gomez as another option and a midfield trio also in fine form.
Our ECHO panel discusses how Alexander-Arnold should be used when he returns:
Paul Gorst – Bradley has been terrific, but Alexander-Arnold‘s skill might make all the difference.
First and foremost, credit to Conor Bradley for capitalising on Trent Alexander-Arnold‘s absence.
The West Derby-born defender has been in and out of the squad for the bulk of 2024, and while he has been absent, Bradley has stepped up to the plate significantly.
The Northern Ireland international has undoubtedly established himself as a member of the senior group going ahead, and there will be few objections if he is included next season, provided the new manager sees what he has seen since being thrown into the team following Alexander-Arnold’s injury.
Having said that, Alexander-Arnold‘s imminent return will be critical for the Reds as they attempt to turn the tide in the Premier League title battle over the next ten games.
A fit and ready Alexander-Arnold will open up rival defenses, and while the argument about his long-term position will undoubtedly continue, seeing the No.66 return to his hybrid role will instill confidence in everyone associated with the club.
The Brighton game on March 31 has been marked as the England international’s tentative return date, and imagine how much his ingenuity will help the cause in the remaining two months.
Joe Rimmer – Klopp’s answer is quite clear.
The solution for Alexander-Arnold is simple: put him back in the starting lineup.
It is frequently forgotten – or conveniently disregarded – how good Trent is, and his value to Liverpool cannot be overstated.
He was just getting into his stride when the original knee problem happened, and let us not forget that it was his impact that sparked a turnaround in Liverpool‘s fortunes this time last year.
Yes, Conor Bradley has impressed, and Joe Gomez is a reliable defensive alternative, but Trent provides Liverpool with a whole new danger, potentially serving as a secret weapon in the Premier League‘s final stretch.
That level of talent is uncommon and must be capitalized on as Liverpool strives to finish the season on a high note.
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