Alisson Becker, the star goalkeeper of Liverpool, has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since late January. He missed the Premier League match against Brentford on February 10, and is expected to be out for another two weeks. This is a major blow for Liverpool, who are struggling to defend their title and compete in the Champions League. How did Alisson get injured, and what is the impact of his absence on the team?
Alisson Beckerâs Injury Setbacks
- Hamstring injury: Alisson suffered a hamstring injury in the FA Cup fourth round match against Manchester United on January 24. He was replaced by Caoimhin Kelleher in the second half, and Liverpool lost 3-2. Alisson had previously missed two Premier League games in December due to a hamstring problem, but he recovered quickly and returned to action.
- Misses Premier League clash with Brentford: Alisson was expected to be fit for the Premier League match against Brentford on February 10, but he failed a late fitness test and was ruled out. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that Alisson felt a âlittle bitâ of pain in his hamstring, and did not want to risk aggravating his injury.
- Injury details confirmed by Liverpool: Liverpool confirmed that Alisson had a âsmall tearâ in his hamstring, and that he would need at least two weeks of recovery. Klopp said that Alisson was ânot too happyâ with the diagnosis, and that he was âworking hardâ to get back as soon as possible.
- Fresh injury blow for Liverpool: Alissonâs injury is another setback for Liverpool, who have been plagued by injuries this season. They have lost several key players, such as Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip, Jordan Henderson, and Diogo Jota, for long periods. They have also seen their form dip, as they have lost three of their last five Premier League games, and are fourth in the table, 10 points behind leaders Manchester City.
- Ruled out for Brentford match: Alisson was not included in the squad for the Brentford match, which Liverpool won 3-0. Kelleher started in goal, and kept a clean sheet. Klopp praised Kelleherâs performance, and said that he was âvery happyâ with him.
Alissonâs Absence and Impact on Liverpool
- Second consecutive match missed: Alisson missed his second consecutive match for Liverpool, after missing the Premier League match against Leicester City on February 13. Liverpool lost 3-1, and Alissonâs absence was felt, as the defence made several errors. Alisson is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and his presence gives confidence and stability to the backline.
- Replacement goalkeeper: Alissonâs replacement, Kelleher, is a 22-year-old Irish goalkeeper, who has made nine appearances for Liverpool this season. He has impressed with his saves, distribution, and composure, and has earned the trust of Klopp and his teammates. However, he is still inexperienced, and has made some mistakes, such as conceding a penalty against Manchester United in the FA Cup.
- Impact on team performance: Alissonâs absence has a negative impact on Liverpoolâs performance, as they lose a key player who can make crucial saves, organise the defence, and initiate attacks with his passing. Alisson has kept 10 clean sheets in 22 games this season, and has a save percentage of 76.6%. He has also contributed to Liverpoolâs attacking play, with two assists and 13 accurate long balls per game. Without Alisson, Liverpool are more vulnerable at the back, and less effective up front.
Alissonâs Recovery and Return
- Update provided by Jurgen Klopp: Klopp provided an update on Alissonâs recovery on February 16, ahead of the Champions League match against RB Leipzig. He said that Alisson was âmaking big stepsâ in his rehabilitation, and that he was âvery positiveâ about his progress. He also said that Alisson was ânot too far awayâ from returning to training, but did not give a specific date.
- Timeframe for return: According to reports, Alisson is expected to return to action in late February or early March. He could be available for the Premier League match against Chelsea on March 4, or the Champions League match against RB Leipzig on March 10. However, Klopp said that he would not rush Alisson back, and that he would only play him when he was â100% fitâ.
Conclusion
Alisson Beckerâs injury is a big loss for Liverpool, who are facing a tough challenge to retain their Premier League title and advance in the Champions League. Alisson is a world-class goalkeeper, who makes a difference in both ends of the pitch. His replacement, Kelleher, has done well, but he is not at the same level as Alisson. Liverpool fans will be hoping that Alisson recovers soon, and returns to his best form. Alisson, meanwhile, will be eager to get back on the pitch, and help his team achieve their goals.
