Liverpool release injury update after nightmare night – A huge 48 hours for Newcastle?

The past 48 hours have been nothing short of perfect for Newcastle United as they gear up for Sunday’s Carabao Cup Final against Liverpool.

The Magpies’ preparations kicked off in style with a crucial 1-0 victory over West Ham on Monday night, a result that not only boosted morale but also came without any fresh injuries or suspensions.

The win, secured with a clean sheet, injected a renewed sense of confidence and momentum into Eddie Howe’s squad, leaving them in high spirits ahead of their trip to Wembley.

As if the victory over West Ham wasn’t enough, Tuesday night brought even more good news for Newcastle fans. Liverpool, their opponents in the Carabao Cup Final, faced Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie at Anfield.

From a Newcastle perspective, the outcome couldn’t have been more favorable. PSG emerged victorious, knocking Liverpool out of the competition after a grueling 120-minute battle that ended in a penalty shootout. Darwin Núñez and Curtis Jones missed their spot-kicks, sealing a heartbreaking exit for the Reds.

The Champions League defeat was a significant blow for Liverpool, both emotionally and physically. The players looked visibly drained by the end of the match, having pushed themselves to the limit against a dynamic and energetic PSG side.

To make matters worse for Liverpool, they may have lost key defender Trent Alexander-Arnold to injury. The right-back twisted his knee and ankle in an awkward fall during the second half and was immediately substituted. After the match, manager Arne Slot expressed doubt about Alexander-Arnold’s availability for Sunday’s final, stating, “I’d be surprised if he’s available on Sunday.”

Adding to Liverpool’s woes, Ibrahima Konaté was also forced off the pitch due to fatigue, leaving questions about his fitness for the weekend. With Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez already sidelined, Liverpool’s defensive options are looking increasingly thin.

The absence of Alexander-Arnold, in particular, would be a massive setback for the Reds, as the England international is one of their most creative and influential players.

For Newcastle, the contrast between their fortunes and Liverpool’s couldn’t be starker. Just a few days ago, the Magpies were reeling from a series of setbacks, including injuries to Lewis Hall and Sven Botman, Anthony Gordon’s suspension, an FA Cup exit, and a drop to ninth in the Premier League table.

However, the mood has shifted dramatically following their win over West Ham. The team moved back up to sixth in the league, avoided any new injuries or suspensions, and heads into the Carabao Cup Final with renewed belief and momentum.

Liverpool, on the other hand, are dealing with the physical and emotional toll of their Champions League exit, as well as the potential loss of Alexander-Arnold. While the Reds have been a formidable force this season, their recent struggles could play into Newcastle’s hands.

The Magpies will be hoping to capitalize on Liverpool’s fatigue and defensive vulnerabilities as they aim to lift their first major trophy in over five decades.

As the countdown to Sunday’s final continues, Newcastle fans can take heart from the fact that luck seems to be on their side at the start of what promises to be a historic week. The team’s resilience and determination have been on full display in recent matches, and they will need to bring that same energy and focus to Wembley.

While Liverpool remain a formidable opponent, the Magpies have every reason to believe they can rise to the occasion and secure a memorable victory. The stage is set for an epic showdown, and Newcastle will be determined to make the most of their newfound momentum.