Liverpool Injury Update: Mac Allister Fit, Bradley Set for Spell on Sidelines
Liverpool continue their preparations for the upcoming Premier League clash with Newcastle United, with Arne Slot providing key updates on Alexis Mac Allister and Conor Bradley in his latest press conference. While there were concerns over Mac Allister’s availability following his collision in the 2-0 win over Manchester City, Slot reassured fans that the midfielder is set to feature. However, Bradley’s hamstring injury leaves Liverpool with limited defensive options for the foreseeable future.
As the Reds push forward in their title race, Squad depth will be tested, with key players needing to step up in the absence of injured teammates.
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Mac Allister Cleared for Newcastle Clash
Alexis Mac Allister sparked concern among fans after sharing a post-match photo of himself sporting a black eye and swollen cheek following Liverpool’s hard-fought victory over Manchester City. The Argentine midfielder was involved in a collision with Omar Marmoush, requiring treatment on the touchline before continuing the game.
However, despite initial worries, Slot confirmed that Mac Allister remains available for selection. “I think he will [be alright]. He will train with us today,” he said during his pre-match press conference.
With his availability confirmed, Mac Allister is expected to retain his place in Liverpool’s midfield, where his vision, composure, and tactical intelligence have been instrumental in their success this season.
Bradley’s Absence Leaves Liverpool Short at Right-Back
One of the more concerning updates from Slot’s press conference was the confirmation that Conor Bradley will be sidelined for “a few weeks” after suffering a hamstring injury during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa.
“Conor doesn’t [train]. He will be out for a few weeks. I cannot tell you exactly how many,” Slot explained. “It’s clear, he went off with a muscle injury, it’s going to take a while until he’s back.”
Bradley’s absence leaves Liverpool with only one natural right-back in Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was substituted late on against Manchester City after receiving vocal criticism from Slot for his defensive positioning. Despite that moment, Alexander-Arnold remains crucial to Liverpool’s system and will undoubtedly start against Newcastle.
With Joe Gomez also dealing with his own hamstring issue, Jarell Quansah may have to step in as a secondary right-back option if required, though his primary role remains as cover at centre-back.
Potential Attacking Changes Against Newcastle
Liverpool’s attacking setup against Manchester City was unconventional, with Slot opting to start without a recognised striker. Instead, he deployed two No. 10s in a system designed to control possession and frustrate City’s defensive structure.
However, against Newcastle, a return to a more traditional attacking lineup could be on the cards. Slot hinted that both Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo could come back into contention, providing more direct attacking options.
Meanwhile, Darwin Núñez and Federico Chiesa remain alternative choices, though their current form and favour with the manager remain uncertain. With Liverpool looking to maintain their strong position in the title race, Slot will be keen to field his most effective attacking lineup against a Newcastle side that has shown defensive vulnerabilities this season.
Managing Depth in the Title Race
As Liverpool enter a crucial phase of the season, managing injuries and squad rotation will be essential. With Bradley sidelined and Gomez also recovering, the defensive line will need to remain resilient. Meanwhile, the return of Mac Allister provides much-needed stability in midfield.
Against Newcastle, Slot will likely lean on his key players while making calculated tactical adjustments. Liverpool’s depth has already been tested this season, but their ability to adapt and find solutions will be key to sustaining their title challenge.
Fans will hope that Bradley’s injury does not extend beyond the initial timeline, while also looking forward to seeing a full-strength attack take the field once again.
