Trent Alexander-Arnold was named in a Real Madrid matchday squad for the first time since mid-September, with Liverpool’s former right-back expected to mark his Anfield return next week.
Alexander-Arnold spent just short of six weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring injury he sustained in the Champions League on September 16.
His initial recovery timeline cast doubt on a return to Anfield to face his former side next Tuesday, but he has since made his return to Real Madrid‘s matchday squad.
The 27-year-old was named on the bench for his side’s 2-1 victory against Barcelona on Sunday, and although he was left unused, Xabi Alonso declared that he was fit to play.
“I’m working on the premise that all the players in the squad can be starters. Then it depends on the mental, tactical, physical aspects. But they can all play,” Alonso said.
Alexander-Arnold will, therefore, be in contention against Liverpool, but Alonso favoured Dani Carvajal to replace Federico Valverde at right-back in the final stages of El Clasico.
There will also be the added Anfield factor that Alonso must consider as the 27-year-old will be on the receiving end of a hostile atmosphere after the acrimonious nature of his exit.
While the right-back has had pockets of supporters after running his contract down, there will be no escaping the ‘welcome’ he will receive, whether he starts or takes a place on the bench.
Real Madrid host Valencia prior to travelling to Merseyside, and how Alonso uses Alexander-Arnold will offer a big hint as to his role at Anfield, as another game without a start would suggest that will not change against Liverpool.
The England international has made just five appearances this season for a total of 156 minutes, with captain Carvajal preferred when fit.
Carvajal was also recently sidelined with a muscular injury but played out the final 18 minutes on Sunday, while centre-back Dean Huijsen returned from a calf injury to play the full 90 minutes.
Liverpool, on the other hand, have a growing list of fitness concerns with Curtis Jones‘ reported groin issue seeing the injury list extend to eight ahead of the midweek Carabao Cup fixture.
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