Alexis Mac Allister drops fitness hint ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Atletico Madrid | OneFootball

Mac Allister Injury Update Offers Boost Ahead of Atletico Madrid Clash

Liverpool’s preparations for their Champions League opener against Atletico Madrid appear to have received a timely boost, with Alexis Mac Allister offering encouraging signs regarding his fitness. The Argentine midfielder was withdrawn at half-time during the weekend’s 1-0 victory over Burnley, sparking initial concerns over his availability for midweek.

Concerns After Turf Moor Substitution

The 26-year-old was caught heavily by a challenge from Burnley midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu, which many observers – including former referee chief Keith Hackett – felt warranted a dismissal rather than a caution. Arne Slot opted for caution, replacing Mac Allister at the interval with Liverpool keen to avoid aggravating the issue.

Given the close turnaround before Wednesday’s clash at Anfield, supporters feared the World Cup winner could face a race against time to feature. With Champions League football resuming and Atletico Madrid arriving on Merseyside, any absence would have been a significant setback.

Positive Message From Mac Allister

However, Mac Allister quickly moved to calm nerves. In an Instagram post following the victory at Turf Moor, he praised Liverpool’s effort before adding that his attention was turning to Europe. His words – “Time to recover my ankle and think about a new Champions League campaign” – strongly suggested his injury was not serious and that he expects to be available for selection.

The statement offered reassurance not only about his recovery but also about his determination to play a central role against Diego Simeone’s side.

Recent Workload and Player Management

Mac Allister’s workload has been under scrutiny in recent weeks. He was absent for Liverpool’s win at Newcastle with a muscle issue and played a demanding 90 minutes at altitude during Argentina’s recent defeat to Ecuador. Slot admitted before the Burnley fixture that the plan was to limit his involvement regardless, setting a maximum of 60 minutes.

That precautionary strategy may well explain his early substitution more than any major concern over fitness. It would not be surprising if Slot managed his minutes carefully against Atletico, particularly with Liverpool facing seven matches in 21 days before the October international break.

Options Available for Atletico Madrid Test

Despite Curtis Jones being unavailable, Liverpool have a largely fit squad heading into Wednesday night. The presence of Mac Allister in midfield would be crucial as they prepare for the physical and tactical battle against Atletico Madrid, a side renowned for their discipline and resilience under Simeone.

Should he start, Mac Allister’s partnership with Ryan Gravenberch could prove pivotal in controlling the tempo at Anfield. The Argentine’s ability to dictate possession and link play is considered indispensable, and Liverpool will hope to have him on the pitch for as long as possible.

All signs point towards a positive outcome from this injury update, easing concerns among the Anfield faithful and allowing Slot to prepare with confidence.