Liverpool: Predicted Lineup vs Fulham as Alexander-Arnold Ruled Out

The Reds’ injury crisis has only gotten worse in the past few weeks.

As Liverpool prepares to face Fulham in the Carabao Cup semi-final, Jürgen Klopp’s squad faces a significant setback with the absence of key player Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is set to miss about three weeks of action due to a knee injury sustained in the FA Cup clash against Arsenal.

Liverpool, having secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over Fulham in their recent Premier League encounter, now aims to replicate that success in the Carabao Cup semi-final. The Reds find themselves in an impressive form, sitting at the top of the Premier League table and reaching the final four of the EFL Cup.

However, the predicted lineup for this crucial clash against Fulham sees notable absentees. Apart from Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool will miss the services of Joël Matip, Andrew Robertson, Kostas Tsimikas, Dominik Szoboszlai, Thiago Alcântara, and Stefan Bajcetic due to various injuries. Additionally, Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo are unavailable, participating in the Africa Cup of Nations and the Asian Cup, respectively.

The return of Virgil van Dijk, who missed the FA Cup victory over Arsenal due to illness, provides a boost to Liverpool’s defensive line. Assistant manager Pep Lijnders confirmed Van Dijk’s availability, stating, “Virgil ran yesterday while we were doing the training with the subs. He did a few jogs and was smiling and looked good. He will be back. He will be back.”

In Alexander-Arnold’s absence, Northern Irish right-back Conor Bradley is expected to step in, while Joe Gomez is likely to continue at left-back. Caoimhin Kelleher will take his place in goal, as confirmed by Lijnders.

The predicted Liverpool XI for the Carabao Cup semi-final(4-3-3): Kelleher; Bradley, Van Dijk, Konate, Gomez; Gravenberch, Elliott, Jones; Jota, Nunez, Diaz.