Trent Alexander-Arnold hasn’t travelled to Portugal for Liverpool vs FC Porto
According to Liverpool Echo, Trent Alexander-Arnold hasn’t travelled with the Liverpool squad for their UEFA Champions League clash against FC Porto.
The young wing-back has had some issues early on in the season. He was forced to sit out the match against Crystal Palace due to illness. The youngster also had a tough time against Brentford in their latest Premier League tie where the Bees managed to score 3 goals against the 2019 Premier League champions.
Trent has been Liverpool’s first-choice wing-back. He offers a lot going ahead which is instrumental to the Merseysiders attacking threat. The young defender has won the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, and Premier League with this side. The 22-year-old plays a pivotal part in the backline for the Reds
The decision of not having Alexander-Arnold as part of the travelling squad raises doubts about his fitness. The club have been tight-lipped about the situation till now. Neco Williams, who has been used as the backup right wing-back, makes the 22-man travelling squad that goes to Portugal.
Liverpool are currently on top of their Champions League group after recording a stellar 3-2 victory against AC Milan in their opening group match. The Reds would be more concerned about the English wing back’s availability for the Manchester City game in the PL on Sunday. That could be crucial in deciding the title race early in the season and the Reds would be looking to make a statement early on.
Trent’s absence would be sorely missed if the youngster would not be able to feature in the game against Man City. Academy product Neco Williams could deputise for Alexander-Arnold in the position. James Milner has also played at right wing-back this season against Crystal Palace in the PL. Joe Gomez is another viable option at right-back.
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The Kop can hope that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s absence is more of a precaution than anything else. Liverpool are already without midfielders like Thiago Alcantara and Harvey Elliot due to injuries whereas Naby Keita has just returned to training. The Reds would be looking to make an impact in their upcoming matches against Porto and Man City as it could set the precedent for the rest of the season.
