Any manager would be thankful to inherit a squad containing Alexis Mac Allister. The midfielder has been a key part of Arne Slot’s Liverpool, and the Dutchman will be hoping it stays that way.
His £35m arrival in summer 2023 sparked an upturn in performances – the Argentine proving his versatility to aid the team’s attacking and defensive efforts. But under a new coach he has not been forced to stick to one or the other, with a deeper midfield role that offers the freedom to roam when in possession.
Except now, with Liverpool engaging in a thrilling battle with fellow title-chasers Arsenal, questions may be asked of Mac Allister and his head coach. Whilst plenty of first-half moments have gone against the Reds, there is one that is going to have a lasting impression.
Bukayo Saka toyed with the No.10, bursting from the flank into the middle of the park with the ball at his feet, until the Gunners player was brought to the ground. Without hesitation referee Anthony Taylor reached for his pocket to produce the yellow card.
The reality is that Mac Allister has lacked discipline in recent times, as this is his fourth booking in as many matches in all competitions. In the Premier League though this is his third of the season, meaning he is two away from receiving a one-game suspension.
Now Slot is going to have to balance this cautiously over the coming weeks – a period that sees his team play a number of difficult matches. Eyes of cause will be on the Manchester City fixture on December 1, with three more opportunities between now and then for Mac Allister to earn his ban.
Also having to be wary in the upcoming fixtures against Brighton, Aston Villa and Southampton are Ibrahima Konate and Dominik Szoboszlai. That duo also have three Premier League bookings on their record and are therefore in the same precarious scenario is their team-mate.
