Alexis Mac Allister and Konstantinos Tsimikas are reportedly doubtful for Liverpool’s upcoming Premier League clash against Chelsea, according to The Anfield Talk. While Mac Allister was spotted during a gym session, he was notably absent from full team training, sparking concerns about his availability. This update follows the conclusion of the international break, where Mac Allister played 65 minutes in Argentina’s dominant 6-0 victory over Bolivia. Although he returned to Liverpool without any reported injuries, his absence from team training suggests there could be lingering fitness concerns that might prevent him from featuring in the crucial Chelsea encounter.
Mac Allister has become a vital part of Liverpool’s midfield setup this season, consistently contributing with his composure and ability to dictate play. He has featured in every one of Liverpool’s matches in the 2024-25 campaign, solidifying his role as a key player for Jurgen Klopp’s side. If he is unable to take part in the Chelsea clash, it would certainly be a significant blow to Liverpool’s midfield stability, especially given his recent form. His knack for breaking up opposition play and linking up with Liverpool’s attacking unit has made him an indispensable figure. The potential void in midfield could put pressure on Klopp to find a suitable replacement, and with the Chelsea match looming, time is running out for Mac Allister to prove his fitness.
Similarly, concerns have arisen over left-back Konstantinos Tsimikas. The Greek defender made a brief appearance as a substitute in Greece’s 2-0 UEFA Nations League win over Ireland last weekend, but his status for the Chelsea match remains unclear. Tsimikas has featured regularly for Liverpool this season, playing in seven games and providing valuable cover for first-choice left-back Andrew Robertson. His performances have been solid, offering Klopp depth in a position where defensive reliability is crucial. However, Robertson is expected to start against Chelsea, as he remains Klopp’s preferred option at left-back. Even so, Tsimikas’s absence would reduce Klopp’s options off the bench, which could be problematic in a high-intensity match like this.
The potential absence of both Mac Allister and Tsimikas from such a significant match raises questions about how Liverpool will adapt. While these two players have played pivotal roles in recent weeks, Liverpool does have depth in its squad. Players like Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch could step into the midfield, while Robertson remains a consistent and reliable option at left-back. Despite these alternatives, the lack of squad depth could become a concern if more injuries were to occur.
Adding to Liverpool’s concerns, they will also be without their first-choice goalkeeper, Alisson Becker. The Brazilian shot-stopper is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, leaving a notable gap in Liverpool’s defense. Alisson has been one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League over the past few seasons, and his absence could have a significant impact on Liverpool’s ability to keep Chelsea’s attackers at bay. Backup goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher is expected to start in Alisson’s place, but the difference in experience and quality between the two is substantial. Kelleher has proven himself in the past, but facing Chelsea’s dynamic attack without Alisson’s calming presence will be a huge test for the young goalkeeper.
This Premier League showdown between Liverpool and Chelsea is shaping up to be a highly anticipated affair. Liverpool currently leads the Premier League table with 18 points from seven matches, having maintained an unbeaten record in their last five games across all competitions. Chelsea, on the other hand, sits fourth in the standings with 14 points from the same number of matches. Both teams are in good form, and with neither side having suffered a defeat in their last five outings, this match promises to be a fiercely contested battle.
However, Liverpool’s injury concerns could shift the balance in Chelsea’s favor. With key players like Alisson, Mac Allister, and possibly Tsimikas unavailable, Chelsea might look to exploit these absences. That said, Liverpool’s depth and Klopp’s tactical nous have proven time and again that they can overcome such challenges. Fans will be eager to see how the Reds cope with these potential setbacks, while Chelsea will undoubtedly smell an opportunity to close the gap on the league leaders.
As Sunday, October 20 approaches, all eyes will be on Anfield to see how Liverpool and Chelsea face off in this crucial early-se
ason fixture.