Trent Alexander-Arnold to miss Carabao Cup final against Chelsea

Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold will miss the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea later this month, according to The Times.

The England international will be sidelined for several weeks after aggravating a knee injury. 

This news is a big blow to the Reds’ hopes of lifting the trophy, with the 25-year-old playing a crucial role in their defence and attack.

The setback stems from a small tear in Alexander-Arnold’s lateral collateral ligament suffered during the FA Cup win over Arsenal in January. 

Despite initial recovery and a comeback against Norwich City, playing through the pain in crucial league games against Chelsea and Arsenal exacerbated the issue. 

He was forced off at half-time in the recent win over Burnley and needs more rest.

This news compounds Liverpool’s injury woes, with Thiago Alcantara also facing another spell on the sidelines after a hamstring injury just minutes into his return. 

Dominik Szoboszlai is doubtful for the final against Chelsea with a similar issue.

Alexander-Arnold’s absence creates an opportunity for Conor Bradley, who impressed with his first goal for the club against Chelsea in the Premier League and recently returned after compassionate leave. 

Bradley lacks Alexander-Arnold’s established experience but can make a strong case for himself in this crucial period.

The injury also casts doubt on Alexander-Arnold’s availability for England’s upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.

Alexander-Arnold wants to break into Gareth Southgate’s starting line-up for the summer’s European Championships, and these friendlies are his chance to book his ticket to Germany.

There is brighter news for Liverpool with Mohamed Salah stepping up his training after recovering from a hamstring injury he sustained with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.

His return will be a massive boost for the Reds’ attack.