Trent Alexander Arnold and Virgil Van Dijk
Andy Robertson limping off through injury put a dampener on what was a celebratory afternoon as Liverpool fans experienced a near-capacity Anfield for the first time since March 2020. The Reds could only manage a 1-1 draw with Athletic Bilbao, following Diogo Jota’s first goal in front of supporters, but the result was unimportant as the players focused on fitness and fans enjoyed their return to Anfield. However, Robertson being ruled out would be a huge concern for Jurgen Klopp , ahead of his team’s Premier League opener against Norwich next week. Speaking to LFC TV after the game, Trent Alexander-Arnold echoed what all other Liverpool fans were thinking.
Trent Alexander Arnold said: “Obviously the big downside was Robbo coming off injured, but other than that it was quite a pleasing performance. I haven’t seen him but it’s going to be quite bad if Robbo has to come off. It’s not something that he normally does. It’s disappointing to see but I’m sure he’ll bounce back as soon as he can.”
Jurgen Klopp confirmed post-match that Robertson will have a scan on his foot tomorrow. It will be a significant blow if the Reds are to be without the Scotsman, who started all 38 league games last season. Despite the disappointment, Robertson’s injury handed an opportunity to academy graduate Owen Beck, with the 18-year-old performing well in front of the Anfield crowd. Having been part of the pre-season group this summer, Alexander-Arnold was full of praise for the young left-back.
Trent Alexander Arnold said: “[Beck’s] shown signs of [performing well] all pre-season really. He’s impressed a lot of us with the way he is. He’s still growing, he’s still maturing as a lad and he’s got a lot to learn but the signs are there that he’s going to be a top player.”
Alexander-Arnold knows what it takes to step up to the Liverpool first-team and emphasised the importance of Beck learning from the more senior pros.
Trent Alexander arnold added: “[Beck’s] obviously got Robbo and Kostas [Tsimikas] ahead of him. Hopefully, being in and around them, he’ll be able to pick up things and learn from them. Today, he got the opportunity and he took it.”
