Liverpool could be facing a selection headache ahead of key games against Porto and Man City.
Indeed, Trent Alexander-Arnold wasn't among the travelling party as the Reds jetted to Porto on Monday and is now a doubt for the match against Man City on Sunday.
But it's not the first time the Reds have been without their first-choice right-back this season.
Alexander-Arnold had been expected to against Crystal Palace at Anfield, but the Liverpool boss was forced into one late change after defender reported himself as unwell in the build-up to the clash.
The Scouse full-back is integral to how the Reds perform; the system allows him to operate as the team's primary playmaker despite his role as a defender.
READ MORE: Trent Alexander-Arnold hands Liverpool major concern ahead of Porto fixture
His influence can be captured using the numbers, as no Premier League player has generated more key passes for his teammates than Alexander-Arnold's this season, with a key pass defined as one that directly leads to a shot.
In addition to his impact on chance creation, the academy graduate is also central to how Liverpool move the ball from A to B, ranking eighth in the division for progressive passes so far, having played fewer minutes than those placed ahead of him.
Replacing Alexander-Arnold is almost impossible, but that is how James Milner contributed against the Eagles.
Now aged 35, Milner has developed to become a jack of all trades at Anfield and he showcased his ability to adapt and offer a reliable solution when called upon.
“That's why I'm here. If something is needed, try and do what you can," said Milner after his performance helped to deliver a 3-0 win over Palace, and what a performance it was.
Not only did the Liverpool vice-captain restrict Wilfried Zaha - who was his direct opponent on the day - from impacting Patrick Vieira's attack, but he also offer perks on the ball in the form of Alexander-Arnold.
His actions in possession weren't quite as elaborate as those typically offered by Alexander-Arnold, but he was certainly a positive.
Milner posted an impressive total of 11 progressive passes against the Eagles - as shown above - which was the most on the field ahead of Thiago Alcantara in second, who was the only other player to complete more than five.
The Reds gained more progressive distance through Milner than any other player; he moved the ball 667 yards closer to goal over the course of his 90-minute showing, which was at least 200 yards more than anybody else.
He fell short in the key pass department, registering just one compared to Alexander-Arnold's average of around 4.8 per 90 this season, but he did ensure that Liverpool were able to perform in their usual manner despite the absence of their chief creator.
A version of this article was first published on September 20
