Trent Alexander-Arnold could miss Liverpool’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Tottenham on Thursday with the injury he suffered at Bournemouth at the weekend, although the right-back is not facing an extended spell on the sidelines.
Alexander-Arnold felt discomfort in his thigh during the second half of the 2-0 win at the Vitality Stadium and was withdrawn in the 70th minute to avoid aggravating the problem. Arne Slot admitted after the game that it was “not a good sign” when the 26-year-old asked to be substituted, but scans have revealed a minor issue that is expected to rule him out for days rather than weeks.
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Slot is unlikely to take any risks given Liverpool’s pursuit of four trophies. The head coach has Conor Bradley available to take Alexander-Arnold’s place and Joe Gomez is nearing a return having been sidelined since December’s rout of West Ham with a hamstring injury.
The England international is, therefore, expected to miss the visit of Spurs, who take a 1-0 lead into game at Anfield, as well as Sunday’s visit to Plymouth in the fourth round of the FA Cup. Alexander-Arnold could return for the rearranged Merseyside derby at Everton a week on Wednesday.
Sunderland, meanwhile, have confirmed Jayden Danns has joined on loan for the rest of the season. A deal for the 19-year-old Liverpool forward was completed before the transfer deadline on Monday but the announcement was delayed due to Sunderland having a key Championship fixture that night at Middlesbrough, which Regis Le Bris’ side won 3-2.
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Danns, who signed a long-term contract with Liverpool before agreeing the loan, will not be available for Sunderland immediately due to an ongoing back problem. The teenager will continue his rehabilitation at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre before joining up with the promotion contenders at a later date.
“This is my first loan move and a chance to prove myself, so I’m very appreciative of the opportunity and grateful to the club for placing their faith in me,” said Danns. “I’m disappointed that I will be unable to do that straightaway, but I’m proud to have joined the club and I will work hard throughout this period to ensure I can return to action and play my part.”
