Liverpool faces a significant setback as a key player is sidelined for the upcoming Carabao Cup final against Chelsea later this month.

Liverpool has encountered a major setback on the injury front just ahead of the eagerly awaited Carabao Cup final clash against Chelsea, slated for later this month at Wembley Stadium. This match holds immense significance as it presents Liverpool with the first major opportunity to clinch a trophy this season. However, the absence of one of their pivotal players will undoubtedly pose a challenge for Jurgen Klopp’s squad.

Reports from reliable sources, notably Paul Joyce, indicate that Trent Alexander-Arnold will be unavailable for selection against Chelsea due to an exacerbation of a knee injury he had been managing. While the exact duration of his absence remains unspecified, it is expected that the talented 25-year-old will be sidelined for a considerable period, potentially stretching over several weeks.

The injury setback unfolded during Liverpool’s recent Premier League encounter against Burnley, where Alexander-Arnold was withdrawn at halftime as a precautionary measure after experiencing discomfort in his knee. This development is a significant blow for Alexander-Arnold, who had only recently returned to action following a lateral tear suffered during Liverpool’s FA Cup clash against Arsenal the previous month.

Jurgen Klopp, addressing the situation post-match, revealed, “He felt there [his knee]. He stuck in the grass. We will see, we need further assessment.” He emphasized the recurrence of discomfort in the same area of the knee, underlining the need for caution in managing Alexander-Arnold’s injury.

In the absence of Alexander-Arnold, Klopp faces the dilemma of selecting a suitable replacement to fill the void in the crucial final against Chelsea. Options include Joe Gomez or Conor Bradley, the latter of whom has been on compassionate leave following the passing of his father.

The significance of Alexander-Arnold’s absence is magnified by his remarkable contributions throughout the season, amassing 29 appearances across various competitions and notching two goals. His impact extends beyond scoring, as evidenced by his instrumental role in setting up Diogo Jota’s goal in the recent Burnley encounter, a feat that solidified his position in Premier League history with the most assists (58) by a defender.

Liverpool fans will undoubtedly lament the absence of their star full-back in the upcoming final, but the team will be hoping to rally and overcome this setback as they vie for silverware against formidable opposition in Chelsea.