Injury expert: Liverpool could use ‘maverick’ system v Watford after Alexander-Arnold update
It would be sensible for Jurgen Klopp to rest Trent Alexander-Arnold when Liverpool play Watford on Saturday.
That is according to medical expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in medicine and data analysis.
Alexander-Arnold, 23, missed Liverpool’s last Premier League game against Man City as James Milner filled in.
However, on Thursday, the club confirmed Alexander-Arnold should be available for Saturday’s early kick-off.
Klopp said “Trent is fine” and explained he will train with the squad as normal on Friday.
Liverpool face Atletico Madrid through the week and Dinnery wouldn’t be surprised if Klopp rests one of his star men for what should be an easier game against Watford.
“If there is any doubt, he won’t play,” Dinnery told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“We know Liverpool can play well without him, Milner filled in there against Man City.
“A more maverick approach could be to use a back three and play Konate alongside Van Dijk and Matip.
“I’m not saying Klopp will do that but he certainly has options. The risk is that injury coming back.
“Should Liverpool risk such a key player in a game that would seem to be easier, with Atletico Madrid a few days away?
“That’s not for me to say but it certainly wouldn’t surprise me if Klopp does protect Trent and maybe doesn’t start him against Watford.”
Alexander-Arnold has made seven appearances this season.
Impressively, he has picked up three assists in those outings.
In other news, according to Football Insider sources, one key player will be absent for Liverpool’s clash this weekend.