Former Premier League manager shares thoughts on Liverpool star’s recent struggles | OneFootball

Alan Pardew delivers blunt verdict on Milos Kerkez’s difficult Liverpool start

Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew has questioned Milos Kerkez’s early-season form at Liverpool, suggesting the young full-back is struggling to adapt to life at Anfield following his high-profile move from Bournemouth.

Kerkez’s tough transition to Liverpool

Signed in the summer for a reported £40 million, the Hungarian international arrived with high expectations after an impressive spell on the south coast. Known for his attacking flair and boundless energy, Kerkez was viewed as a long-term solution for Liverpool’s left side.

However, the 21-year-old’s early months under Arne Slot have been far from smooth. His performance in the recent 3-2 defeat to Brentford typified the inconsistencies in his game — scoring a well-taken opener before enduring a difficult evening defensively against a disciplined side led by Keith Andrews.

Observers have noted that Kerkez appears less comfortable in a Liverpool system that demands tactical restraint rather than the freedom he enjoyed at Bournemouth. The defensive expectations, particularly under the microscope of a new manager and a fragile backline, have highlighted some raw edges in his game.

Photo: IMAGO

Pardew claims Kerkez has been “found out” defensively

Speaking to talkSPORT, Alan Pardew offered a candid assessment of Kerkez’s struggles, claiming the youngster has been “found out” in his defensive responsibilities. Pardew’s comments came after observing Liverpool’s defeat in West London, a result that extended their worrying start to the season.

“You’ve got Kerkez, who really is struggling in that Liverpool shirt,” Pardew said. “He came from Bournemouth where he had an outstanding season, mainly through his attacking play. But he’s been found out a little bit defensively, and I thought he struggled again the other night.”

Pardew also pointed to the instability behind the backline, referencing Liverpool’s goalkeeping changes and defensive lapses as contributing factors to the team’s collective unease.

Defensive chemistry under scrutiny

It is not just Kerkez who has faced criticism. Pardew suggested that senior defenders Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate have not been providing the leadership or structure expected of them. The former Crystal Palace manager remarked that the pair “don’t look after each other” and hinted at a lack of understanding within the defensive unit.

“The key to a back four,” Pardew explained, “is that centre-backs protect their full-back and each other. The left-sided centre-half looks after the left-back and his partner. That’s how you build a solid line. At the moment, neither of them are doing that, and that’s a massive problem for Liverpool.”

Such remarks underline a wider issue for Arne Slot’s side — a defence that appears disjointed and vulnerable. With communication seemingly lacking, the Reds’ normally reliable backline has looked anything but secure.

Slot faces critical period in shaping Kerkez’s development

For Kerkez, the coming months represent a test of adaptability and mental resilience. The 21-year-old remains one of Europe’s most promising young defenders, and few doubt his talent. Yet, the transition from Bournemouth to Liverpool’s high-pressure environment requires more than technical ability — it demands patience, trust, and tactical discipline.

Arne Slot will be aware that the Hungarian’s development could prove pivotal in Liverpool’s wider rebuilding project. A player once lauded for his dynamism must now refine his defensive awareness to thrive at the highest level. If Slot can harness his potential while stabilising the defence, Kerkez could yet become an integral figure at Anfield.

But for now, as Pardew bluntly observed, Kerkez’s Liverpool story remains one of early struggle rather than instant success.