Journalist: Arne Slot faces major decision on £40m Liverpool star ahead of Real Madrid clash | OneFootball

Arne Slot faces major Milos Kerkez decision after Aston Villa victory

Liverpool’s title defence began with authority and rhythm, yet the left back debate is already simmering like a tactical subplot worthy of a Champions League knockout night at Anfield. Arne Slot can enjoy the luxury of strength in depth after delivering the Premier League crown in his debut campaign, but with that success comes difficult decisions. The return of Andy Robertson, and the adaptation period of Milos Kerkez, has created one of the season’s earliest intriguing selection questions.

Credit goes to David Lynch, who shared his insight in conversation with Dave Davis for Anfield Index. The discussion captured the balance between patience for Kerkez, a £40m summer signing from Bournemouth, and admiration for Robertson’s all action performance in the 2-0 victory over Aston Villa.

Robertson’s Reassertion Of Authority

Absence can make a player’s value feel sharper, like noticing a missing metronome in a symphony. Robertson looked refreshed and purposeful, driving Liverpool into advanced areas with precision. As Lynch put it: “We’ve said that Robertson is definitely better in terms of progression and defensively he wasn’t troubled at all.” That progression has been Liverpool’s lifeblood for years, with Robertson often functioning as a tempo setter in transition.

His display against Villa provided more than nostalgia. It was function and form, reminding supporters and staff alike of the balance he naturally brings. Lynch noted: “Robertson brought a balance that has been missing.” Slot’s attack depends on controlled width, smart overlaps and reliable defensive recovery. Robertson delivered those traits seamlessly.

Kerkez And The Adjustment Curve

New signings at Anfield often require time to align with tactical expectations and crowd demands. Kerkez, recruited with long term potential in mind, has shown the raw attributes but not yet the decision making consistency. Lynch offered context: “I don’t think Kerkez has had issues defensively, it’s more in terms of what he is doing with the ball at his feet but you hope that will improve and settle down.”

Photo: IMAGO

Modern full backs at Liverpool operate almost as auxiliary midfielders and wingers, something that takes time to master. Lynch added: “He is still adapting and getting used to playing for Liverpool and the expectations around that.” The reminder here is clear, Kerkez is learning in real time, on one of football’s brightest stages.

Balancing Act Ahead In A Brutal Run

Fixture congestion sharpens selection dilemmas. Liverpool face Real Madrid midweek and travel to Manchester City next weekend. That is no stretch of turf for players still settling. Lynch explained: “It’s going to be interesting what he does now with three games in seven days. You’ve got Real Madrid on Tuesday and Man City away on Sunday. Can Robertson do all three? Probably not.” There will be rotation, likely reluctantly. “Maybe you have to use Kerkez in one but I’m not sure which one, but I’m sure we will see a little bit of him.”

Competition drives standards and Kerkez now has a benchmark. Lynch summed it up: “It’s just a little reminder to him that things need to improve or Robertson will be taking his place back.” For Slot, this represents a constructive tension, one that can elevate Liverpool further if managed carefully.