Arne Slot’s hopes of a first Liverpool trophy suffered a fatal blow in the Carabao Cup final.
The Reds were far from their best on the day, with several Liverpool players disappointing at Wembley.
Having failed to deal with Newcastle’s intensity, Steve Nicol claimed Liverpool lacked legs up against Eddie Howe’s side.
One Reds player in particular who struggled in that department was Alexis Mac Allister, with the Argentine looking out of his feet at Wembley.
Being replaced after 67 minutes, Mac Allister’s lacklustre display is a far cry from the impressive form he has showcased this season – something which has been highlighted by Paul Scholes.
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Paul Scholes makes lofty Alexis Mac Allister comparison
Despite fatigue getting the better of him against Newcastle, Mac Allister has been ‘underrated’ for Liverpool for this campaign – playing an internal role in Slot’s midfield.
Scholes in particular is a big fan of the 26-year-old, claiming the midfielder is a ‘really good player’ despite his cup final difficulties.
“You have to be a little bit disappointed with the way Liverpool played, especially in the midfield area. I just think Newcastle overpowered them,” said Scholes on the Overlap Fan Debate.
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“I think Mac Allister is a really good player, he’s been really good for them this season, but it was just common sense for me.
“He kept taking too many touches. When you’re playing against powerful people, it’s the last thing you do; you’ve got to take one or two touches, don’t let anyone near you.
“It’s not something Mac Allister does, is it? And he’s the player I think gets Liverpool playing, almost like a Modric has been through the years.
“When he’s not quite right, I just think the whole thing’s messed up.”
Fatigue is affecting Mac Allister’s Liverpool form
Liverpool’s fatigue problem has been highlighted by Slot, and it seems as if Mac Allister is one of the main examples.
The former Brighton man has been a mainstay for the Reds this season, with Slot relying heavily on his talents in midfield.
Liverpool’s reliance on Mac Allister has meant the midfielder has barely had any rest over recent weeks, something which seems to be catching up with him.
Minutes played Alexis Mac Allister
Aston Villa (A) 81
Man City (A) 90
Newcastle (H) 87
PSG (A) 90
Southampton (H) 45
PSG (H) 90
Minutes played for Liverpool last six games prior to Carabao Cup final
If Liverpool want Mac Allister to get back to his best, Slot is going to have to start trusting his squad more and rotating the Argentine more often – otherwise, he is just going to run the 26-year-old into the ground.