Jurgen Klopp will be facing another challenge as his Liverpool side prepares to host Fulham in the League Cup semi-final first leg. Unfortunately, Klopp will have to manage without 10 senior players, with Trent Alexander-Arnold being the latest addition to the injury list. Despite this setback, Liverpool had a successful weekend, securing a 2-0 win over Arsenal in the FA Cup.
The focus now shifts to the Premier League clash against Fulham, where both teams will battle it out over two legs for a spot in the League Cup final on February 25. Klopp has a lot to consider in terms of injuries and absences, but he will be boosted by the return of his captain.
In a recent update provided by assistant manager Pep Lijnders, it was revealed that Alexander-Arnold has suffered a “little tear in the lateral ligament of his knee,” which will keep him out for approximately three weeks. This absence will provide an opportunity for Conor Bradley to step up and fill the void.
On a positive note, Virgil van Dijk will be back in the squad after recovering from an illness that made him look unwell. However, Dominik Szoboszlai will not be available due to a hamstring injury, although he is expected to return soon. The rest of Liverpool’s absences remain unchanged, with Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo on international duty.
Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas are progressing well and are expected to return to training at the end of this month. Thiago and Stefan Bajcetic have a timeline of February for their full training returns. One confirmed piece of team news is that Caoimhin Kelleher will start in goal.
In terms of Liverpool’s available squad against Fulham, the goalkeepers include Alisson, Kelleher, and Adrian. The defenders are Van Dijk, Konate, Gomez, Quansah, Phillips, Bradley, Chambers, and Beck. The midfielders consist of Mac Allister, Jones, Gravenberch, Elliott, Clark, McConnell, and Nyoni. The forwards include Nunez, Jota, Gakpo, Diaz, and Gordon. It’s worth noting that players who have returned from loan will not be able to go back on loan if they play in this match.