Liverpool’s defensive injury crisis deepens as Trent Alexander-Arnold ruled out of United clash

At the worst possible time

Liverpool's defensive injury crisis has gone from bad to worse after Trent Alexander-Arnold suffered a foot injury during their win over Napoli in Tuesday night. The England international will not be available for Liverpool's crucial game against arch rivals Manchester United this Sunday, and is also expected to be sidelined for next Friday's match against Wolves. Alexander-Arnold has been wearing a protective boot after he sustained the injury during the closing stages of the Napoli game on Tuesday. Nathaniel Clyne could be set for a return, but due to his lack of match sharpness, it is more likely that vice-captain James Milner will start at right-back for the United match this weekend. Alexander-Arnold's absence is a huge blow for Liverpool, who are already having to deal with the absence of both Joe Gomez and Joel Matip. Gomez, who can play at centre-back or right-back, suffered a fracture to his leg during Liverpool's win over Burnley at Turf Moor, while Matip injured his collarbone against Napoli. A back four of Milner, Lovren, Van Dijk and Robertson looks nailed on to start against United this Sunday. If any more defenders get injured, Klopp may have to promote players from the youth team or move the likes of Fabinho back into defence.