Liverpool they fly. Of course, they were tied Newcastle United on Wednesday afternoon, dropping points to Premier League after seven wins on the trot in all competitions, but his incredible start to the season remains intact.
It is foolish to believe this Arne slot machineThe Reds will win every game they play, although it is disappointing that Fabian Schar managed to restore parity late on.
Defensively, Liverpool have been solid this season, making improvements on last year’s efforts. The Anfield team is at the top of the Premier League and Champions League tables so far, but to achieve brilliant heights for many years under Slot’s wing, some areas need some work.
Areas where Liverpool need to improve
Liverpool were flattered to deceive in defense at St James’ Park, without the solid and steely quality that Ibrahima Konate brings to the table, combining his athletic abilities Virgil van Dijkhis cultured style.
Of course, Van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold Both are out of contract at the end of the season, and while FSG are hoping to tie down both stalwarts to new deals, it’s a big worry.
Losing two key pieces of an imposing backline would be a detriment to Slot, because both stars transcend their so-called defensive roles and operate at world-class levels.
Liverpool could also add an extra element to their thriving midfield. Ryan Gravenberch has been in good form this season but looked tired against Newcastle and needs some competition at number six. Martin Zubimentiwhich is still believed to be of interest to Liverpoolcould be the missing element there.
Elsewhere, however, there are one or two key pillars that could actually be found removed from their original position. While it has been integral over the years, Andy Robertson may be one of them.
Why Liverpool should replace Andy Robertson
Liverpool signed Robertson from Hull City in 2017. completing a £10m transfer which was met with derision from many pockets of the Premier League.
This young and relatively unknown Scotsman was certainly not the type of player Jurgen KloppHis project was needed to take them to new heights. Liverpool, it seemed, settled for mediocrity, returning to the familiarity of passability.
How the critics were silenced. Robertson is one of the best left-backs in Premier League history, winner of the biggest awards and creatively only Alexander-Arnold’s wonderful partner.
|
Top assists in Premier League history (Defenders) |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Class |
Player |
It helps |
|
1. |
Trent Alexander-Arnold |
61 |
|
2. |
Andy Robertson |
59 |
|
3. |
Leighton Baines |
53 |
|
4. |
Graeme Le Saux |
44 |
|
5. |
Antonio Valencia |
39 |
|
Statistics via Premier League |
||
The thing is though, Robertson is approaching 31 years of age and has served tirelessly in Liverpool’s highly charged system for many years. completing 316 entries.
Described as a “Duracell Bunny” by Liverpool writer Leanne PrescottRobertson has been running full throttle for many years and is indeed starting to look like a lesser version of the superstar hailed as “the best left back in the world” by Klopp about three years ago.
There’s still plenty to like about the veteran, who ranked in the top 1% of full-backs in Europe’s top five leagues last year for pass attempts, top 2% for advanced passes and top 3% for shot creation. actions per 90, according to FBref.
A pass is considered progressive if the distance between the starting point and the next touch is at least 10 meters closer to the opponent’s goal or any completed pass in the penalty area.
But then she found herself jogging with him Kostas Tsimikas for that first-pick spot this season, the slot seemingly unsatisfied on £160,000 a week Robertson in phases.
Although he is considered one of Alexander-Arnold’s ‘closest friends’ – as revealed below – the Tartan Army skipper cannot keep his place in the side for years to come if he is to stop Slot’s system from hitting the top of.
Liverpool must be ruthless, and while committing Alexander-Arnold to a lucrative new contract is vital, so is the good of the club.
Former scout Mick Brown, recently speaking to Football Insiderbelieves the Reds are set to focus on strengthening the left-back position in 2025, with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and Antonee Robinson – who has recently been hailed as “one of the best left-backs in the world” journalist Dougie Critchley for his exploits at Fulham – top of the shopping list.
Compared to Robertson, it’s probably fair to say that both have greater athleticism and rounded qualities at the moment and Liverpool may be wise to make the bold move.
|
Premier League Left Backs Pick (2024/25) |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Match Stats* |
|||
|
Games (start) |
13 (12) |
14 (14) |
14 (14) |
|
Goals |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
It helps |
0 |
4 |
2 |
|
touches* |
68.5 |
72.1 |
51.3 |
|
Completion of pass |
88% |
82% |
83% |
|
Basic Passes* |
1.5 |
0.9 |
1.0 |
|
Dribbles Completed* |
0.2 (33%) |
1.4 (67%) |
0.5 (70%) |
|
Ball recovery* |
4.0 |
3.8 |
4.1 |
|
Tackles + Cuts* |
1.7 |
4.6 |
2.5 |
|
Ground duels (winners)* |
1.7 (51%) |
4.6 (59%) |
3.0 (65%) |
|
All stats via Sofascore (* = per game) |
|||
That doesn’t mean the long-term Liverpool man should be sold, but a reduced role could be on the cards in the coming campaigns and that would prove to take Slot’s exciting system up a notch.
Ultimately, Liverpool still have a reliable left-back in their mix, with top ball skills and a wealth of experience. However, the Redmen need to develop over the next few years and Robertson may have to step away sometime soon.
