Former manager talks about the need to reinstate Liverpool player into defence | OneFootball

Pardew Highlights Liverpool’s Defensive Woes

Liverpool’s start to the 2025/26 season has been far from ideal, with the Reds conceding nine goals in the Premier League already, seven more than this time last season. Three consecutive losses have left fans concerned ahead of Sunday’s clash against Manchester United. Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew believes that these defensive issues can be traced back to one key decision by Arne Slot.

Pardew, speaking to talkSPORT, emphasised that the Dutchman’s choice to drop Andy Robertson has disrupted Liverpool’s defensive stability. “They (Liverpool) haven’t really played one great game, I don’t think,” he said. “He (Slot) has made a lot of changes. They have got great talent in and around the team. It is going to be a question mark getting the balance right. I think changing the two full-backs – Andy Robertson has been absolutely brilliant this week for Scotland – has been an issue. I think they’ve not looked as good at the back.”

Photo IMAGO

Robertson’s Absence and Defensive Instability

Liverpool’s full-back positions underwent significant changes during the summer. Trent Alexander-Arnold left for Real Madrid while Andy Robertson was relegated to second-choice, meaning two of the club’s most trusted defenders were no longer central to Slot’s plans. These adjustments have contributed to the defence appearing more exposed, with opposing teams finding opportunities more easily than in previous seasons.

Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong, who have been brought in to cover these positions, are yet to make a consistent impact. While both possess undeniable quality, their performances have not matched the standards set by their predecessors, leaving Liverpool’s defensive cohesion fragile.

Pardew is clear on Robertson’s value, not just as a player but as a figure who can provide calm and experience. “It is going to be a question mark getting the balance right,” he continued, highlighting that Robertson’s absence may be contributing to Liverpool’s defensive struggles.

Burnley v Liverpool Premier League Milos Kerkez of Liverpool during the Premier League match at Turf Moor, Burnley UK Newspapers OUT Copyright: xRyanxJenkinsonx FIL-22232-0045

Slot’s Options Ahead of Manchester United

Liverpool face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, a fixture where composure and experience are crucial. Pardew suggests that Slot may need to reinstate Robertson to restore balance. Robertson overcame an injury concern to play twice for Scotland, performing admirably in both games, which may provide the perfect opportunity for him to regain his place.

Kerkez, while talented, has not yet settled into the Premier League environment, and giving him a short break could be beneficial. Slot’s tactical decisions in the coming matches will be scrutinised heavily, especially as Liverpool look to address the defensive vulnerabilities that have emerged early in the season.

Defensive Cohesion as a Priority

Liverpool’s defensive problems are not solely down to individual mistakes; they also reflect the broader disruption caused by changes in personnel and tactical setup. With Robertson sidelined, the full-back areas have lacked continuity, affecting both defensive solidity and the team’s attacking transitions.

Pardew’s comments underline the importance of experienced players in critical positions. “Andy Robertson has been absolutely brilliant this week for Scotland,” he said, stressing that consistent performers at full-back provide the stability required to compete at the highest level. Slot will need to find the right balance between nurturing new talent and leveraging the experience of established players to maintain Liverpool’s defensive standards.

As Liverpool prepare for a challenging period, reinstating Robertson could be key to steadying the backline. Ensuring defensive cohesion will not only improve results but also help the team regain confidence after a rocky start.