Trent Alexander-Arnold could miss Liverpool’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Tottenham on Thursday with the injury he suffered at Bournemouth at the weekend, although the right-back is not facing an extended spell on the sidelines.

Alexander-Arnold felt discomfort in his thigh during the second half of the 2-0 win at the Vitality Stadium and was withdrawn in the 70th minute to avoid aggravating the problem. Arne Slot admitted after the game that it was “not a good sign” when the 26-year-old asked to be substituted, but scans have revealed a minor problem that is expected to rule him out for days rather than weeks.

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Slot is unlikely to take any risks given Liverpool’s pursuit of four trophies. The head coach has Conor Bradley available to take Alexander-Arnold’s place and Joe Gomez is nearing a return having been sidelined since December’s rout of West Ham with a hamstring injury.

Alexander-Arnold is, therefore, expected to miss the visit of Spurs, who take a 1-0 lead into game, as well as Sunday’s visit to Plymouth in the fourth round of the FA Cup. The England international could return for the rearranged Merseyside derby at Everton a week on Wednesday.

Sunderland, meanwhile, have confirmed Jayden Danns has joined on loan for the rest of the season. A deal for the 19-year-old Liverpool forward was completed before the transfer deadline on Monday but the announcement was delayed due to Sunderland having a key Championship fixture that night at Middlesbrough, which Régis Le Bris’s side won 3-2.

Danns, who signed a long-term contract with Liverpool before agreeing the loan, will not be available for Sunderland immediately due to a back problem. The teenager will continue his rehabilitation at Liverpool’s training ground before joining up with the promotion contenders at a later date.

“This is my first loan move and a chance to prove myself, so I’m very appreciative of the opportunity and grateful to the club for placing their faith in me,” said Danns. “I’m disappointed that I will be unable to do that straightaway, but I’m proud to have joined the club and I will work hard throughout this period to ensure I can return to action and play my part.”