Liverpool fans have reason to be excited ahead of their Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday, as manager Arne Slot confirmed that right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold is fit to start the match. The 26-year-old had been sidelined with a hamstring injury but returned to the squad as an unused substitute in Wednesday’s Champions League victory over Real Madrid. His return comes at a crucial time for Liverpool, who will be looking to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table.
However, there are concerns regarding the fitness of two other defenders. Conor Bradley is a doubt for the game after picking up an injury during the Real Madrid match. Additionally, Ibrahima Konate is uncertain after limping off the pitch. Slot gave an update on their condition, explaining, “Conor, I had to take him off, and Ibou didn’t walk off the pitch as he should have after such a fantastic game. He should have made a round and clapped the fans, but he couldn’t.”
Liverpool’s aim is to extend their lead over second-placed Manchester City to eleven points with a win. Despite City’s recent struggles, which include a 4-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur and a 3-3 draw with Feyenoord, Slot expects a tough match. He acknowledged City’s strength, saying, “In the last eight or nine years or longer, I don’t think anyone would have said City home or away – the word easy never comes to mind. They are still a very, very, very good team.”
Alexander-Arnold’s return is seen as a significant boost for Liverpool, especially against a City side that has been conceding big chances this season. A victory on Sunday could give Liverpool an 11-point advantage, putting them in a commanding position for the title race. With Chelsea’s inconsistencies and Arsenal still facing some questions, Liverpool’s lead could prove crucial as they push for the Premier League title.
