Liverpool’s campaign has been hit by a significant setback with the news that their England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to miss several weeks of action due to a knee injury. The injury, sustained in the recent FA Cup victory against Arsenal, has been confirmed as a tear in the lateral ligament of his knee.

Pep Lijnders, Liverpool’s assistant manager, relayed the news in a media briefing ahead of their upcoming League Cup semi-final first leg against Fulham. Despite completing the full duration of the 2-0 win over Arsenal, subsequent scans revealed the extent of Alexander-Arnold’s injury, necessitating a period of recovery away from the field. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet.

This development comes as a significant blow to Liverpool, who are currently at the forefront of the Premier League and actively competing for honors in the Europa League and both domestic cup competitions. Alexander-Arnold, renowned for his influential role as a right-back, has been pivotal in Liverpool’s quest for silverware, contributing decisively in numerous matches.

Lijnders expressed his concern, stating, “It is a big blow as he was one of our most important players. Even in bad spells he was the one putting the balls where we needed the difference. We will really miss him.”

The injury sidelines Alexander-Arnold for key upcoming fixtures, including a Premier League match against Bournemouth, the second leg of the League Cup semi-final against Fulham, and further contests in the FA Cup and Premier League.

In a slight reprieve for the Reds, Lijnders confirmed the return of Netherlands center-back Virgil van Dijk, who is set to be back in the squad against Fulham after missing the Arsenal clash due to illness. This comes as a timely boost for Liverpool, who will have to readjust their lineup and tactics in the absence of Alexander-Arnold’s versatility and attacking prowess. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports.