Why Alisson is absent from Liverpool’s squad to face PSV, with an untested 18-year-old named among the substitutes
Alisson Becker is the most notable absentee from Liverpool’s matchday squad for Wednesday night’s Champions League meeting with PSV Eindhoven.
The Brazilian had only just made his comeback from a hamstring problem – which kept him out for eight games – in last weekend’s 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest. However, he’s missing once again this evening, with Giorgi Mamardashvili immediately returning between the sticks.
His omission initially sparked concern among supporters fearing another injury setback for the Reds’ No.1, but those worries were eased soon after.
Roughly 75 minutes before kick-off, Paul Gorst of the Liverpool Echo clarified the reason behind Alisson’s absence.
Why isn’t Alisson involved tonight?
The ex-Roma stopper has been ruled out through illness, joining Florian Wirtz, Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong on the unavailable list for the clash.
Arne Slot has named only nine substitutes instead of the allotted 12, with two goalkeepers among them – including one who has yet to play senior football.
Freddie Woodman is joined on the bench by 18-year-old Polish keeper Kornel Misciur, who was also included in the matchday squads for the previous Champions League fixtures against Eintracht Frankfurt and Real Madrid.
The youngster has featured in the UEFA Youth League and has appeared this season for Liverpool’s under-18 and under-21 teams, but is still waiting for his senior debut.
Another setback in Alisson’s stop-start season
Alisson will be disappointed to sit out tonight after only just returning from injury, though the fact it’s an illness-related absence suggests he should be back in contention for Sunday’s Premier League trip to West Ham.
Reds fans can take some comfort from the presence of the reliable Mamardashvili, who has delivered several outstanding performances during his recent run as first choice.
The Georgian will be aiming to keep back-to-back Champions League clean sheets at Anfield following his shutout against Real Madrid three weeks ago, while supporters will be hoping Alisson makes a swift recovery from the illness that has kept him out of this fixture.
