Liverpool have suffered a major injury setback ahead of their Carabao Cup final clash against Newcastle United, with Trent Alexander-Arnold ruled out due to an ankle injury. The right-back limped off in the second half of Liverpool’s Champions League last-16 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, and scans have confirmed he will not recover in time for Sunday’s final at Wembley.
Alexander-Arnold’s Injury Blow for Liverpool
Alexander-Arnold’s injury occurred during a challenge with PSG’s Vitinha at Anfield, and initial fears suggested he could miss the remainder of the season. While further medical assessments have ruled out a long-term absence, his recovery timeline means he will be unavailable for the Carabao Cup final.
This is the second consecutive season that the Liverpool vice-captain will miss the League Cup final. Last season, he was absent due to a hamstring injury as Liverpool defeated Chelsea 1-0 in extra time to lift the trophy. His absence this time leaves Arne Slot with a major headache in defence.
Liverpool’s Defensive Headache Ahead of Wembley
With Alexander-Arnold sidelined, Liverpool’s defensive options are stretched thin. Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley are also injured, leaving Jarell Quansah as the only natural replacement at right-back. However, the young defender is more comfortable playing as a centre-back, which could force Slot into a tactical reshuffle.
One potential solution could see Andy Robertson shifting to right-back, allowing Kostas Tsimikas to start on the left. Alternatively, midfielder Alexis Mac Allister could be used in an emergency right-back role, similar to how James Milner was deployed in past seasons.
Arne Slot’s Tactical Dilemma Without Alexander-Arnold
Alexander-Arnold’s injury is not just a defensive issue—it also impacts Liverpool’s attack. The 25-year-old plays a key role in Liverpool’s build-up play, often stepping into midfield to dictate tempo and create chances. Without him, Liverpool may have to adjust their strategy, relying more on their midfielders to carry the ball forward.
Liverpool’s midfield trio of Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones, and Alexis Mac Allister will be crucial in transitioning from defence to attack. Additionally, Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz may have to drop deeper to help in the build-up phase.
Slot acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying:
“Trent is a key player for us, but injuries are part of football. We have to find solutions and adapt. We have players who can step up, and we’ll do everything we can to get the win.”
Alexander-Arnold’s Absence a Concern for England and Tuchel
The injury is not just a setback for Liverpool—it also impacts England’s new head coach, Thomas Tuchel. The Three Lions boss was expected to name Alexander-Arnold in his first England squad, possibly deploying him in a hybrid midfield role.
With the Euro 2024 tournament approaching, Tuchel may have to reconsider his tactical plans if Alexander-Arnold’s injury lingers longer than expected. England’s squad depth at right-back—which includes Reece James, Kyle Walker, and Kieran Trippier—means Tuchel still has options, but losing a versatile player like Alexander-Arnold is a blow.
Liverpool’s Expected Lineup vs. Newcastle
Despite the injury crisis, Liverpool remain favourites heading into the final. With Alexander-Arnold ruled out, here’s how Liverpool could line up at Wembley:
Goalkeeper:
- Caoimhin Kelleher (expected to start in goal as he has in all Carabao Cup matches this season)
Defenders:
- Jarell Quansah (RB)
- Ibrahima Konaté (CB, if fit, otherwise Gomez)
- Virgil van Dijk (CB)
- Andy Robertson (LB)
Midfielders:
- Alexis Mac Allister
- Curtis Jones
- Dominik Szoboszlai
Forwards:
- Luis Diaz
- Darwin Nunez
- Mohamed Salah
Slot is also expected to start Caoimhin Kelleher in goal, as the Irish shot-stopper has played a crucial role in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup run. He was the hero in last season’s final, saving penalties in the shootout against Chelsea, and will be looking to deliver another strong performance.
Newcastle’s Strategy to Exploit Liverpool’s Weakened Defence
Newcastle will see Alexander-Arnold’s absence as a golden opportunity to exploit Liverpool’s weakened right flank. Eddie Howe’s side have dangerous wide players, with Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak likely to target whoever starts at right-back for Liverpool.
Newcastle are also seeking redemption, having lost last season’s Carabao Cup final to Manchester United. The Magpies have not won a major domestic trophy since 1955, and they will be desperate to change that at Wembley.
Liverpool Aim for More Silverware
Despite their injuries, Liverpool will be determined to add another trophy to their cabinet. They are still competing on multiple fronts, with the Premier League and FA Cup also within reach.
Winning the Carabao Cup would provide a massive confidence boost as they aim to chase down leaders Arsenal in the title race and make another deep run in the FA Cup.
Even without Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool’s winning mentality and squad depth could prove decisive at Wembley.
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