Liverpool fans got a first sighting of new signing Arthur today as he warmed up ahead of the draw with Everton.
The 26-year-old was on the bench for the full 90 minutes as Liverpool failed to make the breakthrough at Goodison Park.
Two more points dropped for Jurgen Klopp’s side. Their underwhelming start to the season continues. But the sight of Arthur in full Liverpool kit will at least be a welcome one to fans.
As well as the disappointing result, The Reds injury troubles got even deeper against Everton. Fabio Carvalho had to be replaced at half-time with a suspected dead leg. The youngster may now miss Wednesday’s game against Napoli.
As a result, it’s at least encouraging to see that Arthur looks ready to step in for the youngster.
Arthur nears Liverpool bow
Had Liverpool not had injury issues, Arthur likely wouldn’t have been near the squad. Then again, if Liverpool didn’t have injury issues, he wouldn’t be at the club full stop.
With injury to Carvalho making him a doubt for Wednesday, Arthur looks very close to his first minutes for his new team.
Perhaps that’s a good thing. The 26-year-old has just spent the last two years in Serie A. Maybe a trip back from whence he came will be an easier way to begin his Liverpool career.
If the alternative was being thrown in to a chaotic derby at Goodison Park, then Napoli looks a safer bet.
Between then and now, Arthur should have a couple of training sessions under his belt. Providing he comes through those fine, he’ll be in with a shout to start.
Jurgen Klopp has also suggested that Thiago Alcantara will be back in training next week. If that turns out to be true, then Liverpool’s midfield options will start to immediately look better.
Arthur wasn’t used in the end on Saturday afternoon as Liverpool failed to find the back of the net. But as Klopp desperately searches to get the balance right, it’s unlikely to be long until we see him out on the pitch for real.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
