Report: Carragher Urges Liverpool to Address Left-Back Depth in January | OneFootball

Report: Carragher Urges Liverpool to Address Left-Back Depth in January | OneFootball

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·21 December 2024

Report: Carragher Urges Liverpool to Address Left-Back Depth in January

Article image:Report: Carragher Urges Liverpool to Address Left-Back Depth in January

Report: Carragher Calls for Liverpool to Bolster Squad in January

Liverpool have made an impressive start to the season under Arne Slot, with the Dutch manager injecting renewed energy and purpose into the team. While their attacking performances have drawn plaudits, questions remain over the squad’s balance and defensive depth.

As injuries begin to mount and European fixtures add to the domestic workload, the January transfer window represents a critical opportunity to strengthen in key areas. Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has highlighted one specific position he believes requires urgent attention.


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Strengthening the Left-Back Position

Speaking on The Lowdown, Carragher was candid in his assessment of Liverpool’s current squad, emphasising the need to address the left-back position. The former Reds defender stated, “Left back is definitely an area that Liverpool should be looking to strengthen in January.”

Andy Robertson, a cornerstone of Liverpool’s recent success, has been central to the team’s efforts for years. However, Carragher pointed out the physical toll of consistently playing under Liverpool’s high-intensity system.

“Andy Robertson needs help; he’s a Liverpool legend, he’s won the lot,” Carragher said. “But certainly, the amount of games he’s played, playing in a Jurgen Klopp team, you know, constantly running up and down that wing for five or six years. He needs a little bit of help in that position.”

Article image:Report: Carragher Urges Liverpool to Address Left-Back Depth in January

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Potential Target: Milos Kerkez

Liverpool have already been linked with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez as a potential solution. The 20-year-old Hungarian international has caught the eye with his energetic displays and defensive discipline, making him a strong candidate for the role.

Carragher alluded to the familiarity Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes might have with Kerkez, stating, “Obviously, Richard Hughes must know that player (Milos Kerkez) really well and really likes him. I’m sure he’ll know his contract situation seeing as he probably did the contract for him.”

If the move materialises, Kerkez could provide much-needed cover for Robertson and ensure Liverpool maintain depth and quality during a demanding season.

January’s Importance in Liverpool’s Season

Liverpool’s summer transfer activity was relatively quiet compared to their Premier League rivals. Despite this, the team has shown resilience and adaptability, with players stepping up to meet Slot’s tactical demands. However, as Carragher noted, the left-back position could become a vulnerability if not addressed.

The January transfer window offers Liverpool an opportunity to consolidate their strong start and prepare for the challenges ahead. With European competitions and domestic fixtures continuing to mount, ensuring squad depth will be crucial in maintaining their momentum.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, Carragher’s assessment feels spot on. Andy Robertson has been an invaluable asset, but the relentless demands of Premier League and European football are unsustainable without adequate backup.

Milos Kerkez’s potential arrival would not only provide Robertson with some respite but also inject fresh energy and competition into the squad. With his youth and versatility, Kerkez could be a shrewd addition, particularly given Slot’s penchant for developing dynamic full-backs.

Liverpool’s ambitions this season are clear: competing on all fronts. To achieve that, addressing squad gaps during the January window is non-negotiable. Strengthening the left-back position, as Carragher suggests, could prove pivotal in ensuring Liverpool remain a force to be reckoned with in the second half of the campaign

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