Former Premier League star heaps praise on Liverpool defender | OneFootball

Former Premier League star heaps praise on Liverpool defender | OneFootball

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·15 February 2026

Former Premier League star heaps praise on Liverpool defender

Article image:Former Premier League star heaps praise on Liverpool defender

Milos Kerkez Praised for Performance in Liverpool’s Win over Brighton

Liverpool’s FA Cup clash with Brighton offered another glimpse of how Milos Kerkez has grown into a key figure under Arne Slot. The Hungarian left back produced a decisive attacking contribution at Anfield, helping Liverpool seize control in a fast paced contest that tested both sides early on.

After a steady introduction to life on Merseyside, Kerkez now looks increasingly settled, combining intensity with sharper decision making in the final third. Against Brighton, that evolution became clear as Liverpool found rhythm down the left flank.


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Kerkez influence growing at Liverpool

Supporters have begun to recognise the impact Milos Kerkez is making in a Liverpool shirt. Early in the season, Andy Robertson appeared likely to retain his starting role, yet recent displays suggest the hierarchy has shifted.

Kerkez’s energy was central to Liverpool’s opener against Brighton. Finding space wide on the left, he delivered a precise ball across the six yard box that invited Curtis Jones to arrive late and finish calmly. It was a move built on timing and awareness, traits that Slot’s system demands from his full backs.

Article image:Former Premier League star heaps praise on Liverpool defender

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Brighton test provides tactical clues

The early stages felt balanced, with Brighton remaining compact out of possession and searching for opportunities on the break. Liverpool struggled to establish consistent control at first, yet moments of direct play began to stretch the visitors’ defensive structure.

BBC Sport pundit Paul Robinson highlighted the effectiveness of Liverpool’s approach, writing: “Good play again from Liverpool. They look better when they go direct and when they go quicker.

“What an assist that is from Milos Kerkez. He has been one of Liverpool’s best attacking players. An undefendable ball across the six-yard box.

“Curtis Jones, who is playing right-back, arrives late, but it’s an easy finish.”

His words captured the essence of Liverpool’s improvement, quicker transitions and purposeful movement creating problems Brighton struggled to contain.

Curtis Jones seizes opportunity

Jones’ involvement added another layer of intrigue to the evening. Used as a makeshift right back, the academy graduate responded with a composed performance at a time when his Liverpool future has faced scrutiny.

Rumours surrounding a potential exit have lingered since January, particularly as competition for midfield and wide roles has intensified. Still, moments like his goal against Brighton remind observers that versatility remains a valuable asset within Slot’s squad.

Liverpool are not overflowing with options across every position, meaning consistent displays from players such as Jones could reshape discussions around the summer window.

Momentum building under Arne Slot

For Liverpool, the broader significance lies in how players like Milos Kerkez are stepping forward during a demanding season. Slot’s Premier League winning debut campaign set high expectations, and maintaining that momentum requires depth, adaptability and fresh energy.

Kerkez appears to embody those qualities. His attacking drive has added variety to Liverpool’s build up play, while performances like this suggest he is rediscovering the confidence that first attracted attention during his time at Bournemouth.

As Liverpool continue balancing domestic and cup ambitions, contributions from emerging figures could define the next phase of their campaign. If Kerkez maintains this trajectory, Brighton may look back on this tie as another marker of his growing influence at Anfield.

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