Liverpool's unbeaten streak came to a dramatic halt as they were held to a 1-1 draw against Newcastle United, thanks to a last-minute equaliser from Fabian Schar. The draw leaves Liverpool with a marginal lead at the top of the Premier League, now just seven points ahead, as both Arsenal and Chelsea secured victories, narrowing the gap in the title race.

The Reds, fresh off a series of convincing performances, will want to bounce back quickly, especially with a crucial Merseyside derby against Everton looming on Saturday. The match at Goodison Park promises to be a thunderous clash, marking another historic chapter in Liverpool's storied rivalry with their city neighbors.

Many, including pundit Pat Nevin, were left questioning Liverpool manager Arne Slot's decision to leave star player Trent Alexander-Arnold on the bench for the majority of the game against Newcastle. Nevin made his bewilderment known during BBC Sport's coverage, highlighting how Alexander-Arnold's substitution in the second half proved impactful as he assisted Mohamed Salah almost immediately after entering the pitch.

Alexander-Arnold has recently returned from a significant injury layoff, which partly explains his initial absence from the starting lineup. Nonetheless, the decision has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike, particularly given the right-back's established chemistry with Salah, which Nevin described as "extraordinary."

"There seemed to be a noticeable difference once Trent came on," Nevin remarked. "It didn't take long for them to click back into their synergy on that right flank. You can't help but wonder why he wasn't on the pitch from the start—his understanding with Salah is crucial for Liverpool's attacking threat."

With fellow right-back Conor Bradley sidelined due to injury, Liverpool's depth in that position is in jeopardy, further pushing the argument for Alexander-Arnold's inclusion. Joe Gomez has also expressed frustration regarding his playing time as a fullback, making Alexander-Arnold’s potential return even more essential.

Expectations are high for the England international to be reinstated in the starting XI as Liverpool prepares to face Everton. Alexander-Arnold's impressive performance against Newcastle showcased his readiness to contribute significantly, especially in a match that could determine the momentum of Liverpool's title chase moving forward.

With the stakes incredibly high, can Alexander-Arnold's return spark a much-needed victory for the Reds? Fans will be eagerly anticipating the lineup announcement ahead of what promises to be a thrilling derby showdown.