Liverpool haven’t won a game in the League Cup since the 2016 quarterfinal against Leeds United.
The last two seasons have brought instant exits, though this year’s draw against MK Dons is much kinder than ties against Leicester and Chelsea.
Looking back at the team we fielded in that 2-0 home win almost three years ago really underlines our lack of concern with the competition since.
Seven of the 11 starters are now playing their football elsewhere.
Simon Mignolet was in goal, shielded by Lucas Leiva and Ragnar Klavan in central defence.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who had only just turned 18, earned a start at right-back after impressing in the 2-1 Round of 16 win against Spurs. He would tee up central striker Divock Origi for the opener.
Alberto Moreno was on the left, with Ovie Ejaria, on loan at Reading, playing alongside Kevin Stewart and Emre Can in midfield.
Origi was flanked by Sadio Mane and, intriguingly, Georginio Wijnaldum in the front three.
Marko Grujic and Ben Woodburn, who became the Reds’ youngest-ever scorer with a crucial second, were among the substitutes.
Having made it into the semifinals, we lost both legs against Southampton, missing out on a potential final against Manchester United.
We’re only three wins from reaching the last four once again. Let’s hope a much-changed side can navigate us there.