Liverpool star not spotted with squad ahead of Newcastle clash in potential blow for Reds

Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister has not been seen among the 21-man squad arriving in Newcastle for their Premier League clash at St James' Park on Monday night in a worry for Arne Slot .

The Argentinean started Liverpool's Premier League opener against Bournemouth last week and was key as he grabbed an assist in the 4-2 victory before being subbed off in the 72nd minute.

Mac Allister was a doubt to face the Cherries having only just recovered from an injury that kept him out towards the end of last season and it was clear Slot was keen to take caution over his fitness.

Slot did not mention the former Brighton star as an injury worry as he announced his team news during his pre-match press conference.

New signing Jeremie Frimpong is the only player confirmed as out, while Conor Bradley was noted as a doubt following his recent return to training.

But there will be some concerns that Mac Allister has suffered a re-occurrence of his injury after he wasn't present among the Liverpool stars spotted checking into their hotel on Tyneside, where Bradley was present in the Reds' 21-man squad.

However, some fans have noticed that Mac Allister's wife is expecting a baby in the coming days - which might explain his absence.

It will come as a blow to Liverpool, who were missing his usual midfield partner Ryan Gravenberch in the opening game through suspension, with Dominik Szoboszlai deputising alongside Mac Allister instead, and he could do so once again versus the Magpies.

Liverpool will welcome back Gravenberch for this game, however, and Slot says it will be a huge boost for the team - admitting his absence "hurt them" against Bournemouth.

"I think he can make a lot [of difference]. At least, if he is the same player he was as last season. If you look back at last season, for him not being there and us playing with very good players but very attack-minded players - that hurt us [against Bournemouth]. If he brings his normal level that will help us having him again."

On having two injuries to both of his right-backs, he added: "These things happen. At the moment we only have two injuries but unfortunately, it is two in the same position.

"The good thing is we have other players that can play there. Wataru Endo played there. Dominik Szoboszlai, Joe Gomez is definitely one of them but for him to already play 20 minutes - that is already quite a lot."

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