Andy Robertson determined to reclaim Liverpool starting spot | OneFootball

Andy Robertson Backs Milos Kerkez to Bounce Back After Tough Start

Robertson’s Call for Perspective

Liverpool’s left-back battle took a twist at Turf Moor when Milos Kerkez was hooked after just 38 minutes, with fears he might be sent off. The Hungarian has been one of the most talked-about signings of the summer but has yet to truly settle into life at Anfield.

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Andy Robertson, who knows exactly what it feels like to be the under-fire full-back at Liverpool, has urged fans to show patience. Speaking to the Daily Mail, the vice-captain said: “He is only young and I think we forget that. You try to help them as much as you can but you want to put pressure on them and you want to play games. He will be the starting left-back for Liverpool in the future and it’s up to me to push him this season and help him improve.”

The Scotsman was keen to stress that while competition is fierce, Kerkez has the talent to succeed. “He just needs to keep working hard and not let today affect him, which it won’t as he’s a confident lad, and I’ll help him as much as I can,” Robertson added.

Chance for Robertson to Reclaim Role

Kerkez’s struggles have opened the door for Robertson to reassert himself as first-choice left-back. The 31-year-old was excellent against Burnley, marshalling the flank with his trademark energy and defensive discipline. Fans have been quick to call for him to start the next game, but Robertson is focused on maintaining high standards.

“I do want to play games and be the starting left-back and I have got to keep pushing to try to produce the levels I know I can do,” he explained. “The international break was good for me as I was able to get two 90 minutes, get that match fitness and two really good results for Scotland and I took a lot of confidence from that.”

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Lessons From Robertson’s Own Journey

Robertson’s words carry weight because he has lived through the same challenge. When he signed from relegated Hull City in 2017, he was viewed as a stop-gap option rather than a cornerstone of Liverpool’s defence. He was left out of nine of the first 13 matchday squads and struggled to adapt to Jurgen Klopp’s demands.

Eventually, he broke into the team, became a Champions League and Premier League winner, and is now a senior figure in the squad. The message is clear: patience and hard work can turn a slow start into an elite career.

Pathway for Kerkez

Kerkez now has the opportunity to learn from one of the best. Liverpool’s investment in the 20-year-old was made with the long term in mind, and Robertson’s mentorship could prove invaluable. The expectation is that Kerkez will grow into the role and eventually make the position his own, but for now, he must absorb the lessons and use the competition to raise his game.

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Liverpool fans should take heart from Robertson’s comments because they reflect exactly what this squad needs, competition and support in equal measure. Kerkez was clearly eager to impress against Burnley, maybe too eager, but his aggressive edge is part of why Liverpool signed him. Mistakes at this stage are understandable.

Supporters will also feel encouraged by Robertson’s own resurgence. His performance at Turf Moor reminded everyone why he has been such a crucial figure in Liverpool’s success over the past six years. The fact that he is embracing the challenge of fighting for his place rather than sulking sets the tone for the dressing room.

This period could be defining for Kerkez. Learning under Robertson’s guidance and being challenged to reach the highest standards should speed up his development. Fans will want to see him take these experiences and come back stronger, using the League Cup and early rounds of the FA Cup as a platform to show he belongs.

In a season where Liverpool are balancing the need to defend their title with integrating a new generation, the left-back battle might just be one of the most compelling storylines. Patience will be crucial, but so will giving Robertson the starts he deserves on current form.