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Liverpool Encounters Urgent Trent Alexander-Arnold Challenge as Conor Bradley’s contributions come into focus…

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Liverpool Confronts Trent Alexander-Arnold Challenge as Conor Bradley’s Impact Emerges

 

Liverpool must quickly address the situation surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold, especially in light of the emphasis on Conor Bradley’s role.

 

The club faces a pressing dilemma with Trent Alexander-Arnold, as the importance of Conor Bradley’s involvement is increasingly recognized.

 

Ian Doyle analyzes the significant takeaways following Liverpool’s 2-2 draw at home against Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.

 

The conversation surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future has been prevalent throughout the week, but it is his current form that now demands attention.

 

The right-back’s display against Manchester United was bound to be scrutinized, particularly after Real Madrid’s recent unsuccessful bid to persuade Liverpool to part ways with him this month.

 

While no new contract negotiations are underway, the Spanish club remains a strong contender to acquire him on a free transfer next summer.

 

Instead of showcasing his typical poise amid the speculation, Alexander-Arnold delivered a disappointing performance.

 

His passing was erratic, he showed a lack of urgency in tracking back, and his decision-making was questionable.

 

The problems became apparent early in the match when he overlooked United’s Kobbie Mainoo returning from treatment, allowing him to challenge for the ball.

 

He was frequently caught out of position in the first half and played a role in United’s first goal. Notably, in the 86th minute, Conor Bradley, who replaced him, made a successful tackle within moments of entering the game.

 

As Arne Slot noted, challenging performances are part of every player’s journey, but the timing of this particular display was unfortunate.

 

With Bradley now fit, the competition for Alexander-Arnold’s position has intensified.

 

Mac Allister Takes Charge

 

Alexis Mac Allister, who was sidelined during last season’s encounter with Manchester United due to injury, was determined to make a significant contribution in this match.

 

While many of his teammates struggled in challenging conditions, Mac Allister, donning gloves and metaphorically rolling up his sleeves, stood out as one of Liverpool’s top performers.

 

The Argentina international came close to scoring in the first half with an impressive first-time shot, which was thwarted by United goalkeeper Andre Onana’s leg.

 

He later played a crucial role in Liverpool’s equalizer by providing a precise assist for Cody Gakpo. Additionally, Mac Allister earned the penalty that enabled Mohamed Salah to match Thierry Henry’s all-time Premier League scoring record by drawing a handball from Matthijs de Ligt.

 

Ryan Gravenberch, who played alongside him, nearly found the net but was not as defensively robust as in previous outings. Conversely, Curtis Jones had difficulty making a significant impact during the match.

 

With Dominik Szoboszlai unavailable, it was somewhat unexpected that Harvey Elliott only featured briefly in the latter stages. Given the upcoming League Cup semi-final and FA Cup match, Elliott and other squad players are likely to receive more playing time in the near future.

 

Konate’s welcome return

 

Conor Bradley was not the only player returning to Liverpool’s defense; Ibrahima Konate also made his first start since suffering a knee injury against Real Madrid in late November.

 

While Joe Gomez has performed admirably in Konate’s absence, the Frenchman’s partnership with Virgil van Dijk has been a crucial element of Liverpool’s title challenge.

 

Konate demonstrated his strength early in the match, but it was evident that he was not fully prepared to complete the full 90 minutes. Although he was effective in aerial challenges, he began to tire as the game progressed and was slow to close down Alejandro Garnacho, which led to United’s equalizer.

 

As Liverpool struggled to maintain control, Van Dijk—marking seven years since his debut—was compelled to make several vital interceptions and blocks.

 

He nearly secured a late winner, but Onana was there to deny him. It was yet another frustrating moment for Slot’s team on a difficult afternoon.

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