So here we are halfway through the league season. 19 played, 19 to go. As you all know we’re sitting pretty at the top of the league. Personally I’m taking nothing for granted yet. I’ve felt the pain so often, and the last two games against United and Spurs suggest we’re not quite at our peak at the moment.
Our defence looks the least stable than it has for a while; Andy Robbo still has plenty to offer, but has had lapses. Kostas Tsimikas is great as back up, but not in my mind good enough to replace Robbo and be our long-term left back.
Trent has, let’s be honest, often struggled defensively. Some criticism has in the past been unfair; after all if he’s so important going forward, he can’t always be ready in the right-back position. He’s been better this season as he’s kept his defensive position more often in Slot’s more pragmatic set up. But on Sunday against Man Utd he was shocking. It wasn’t so much his poor play, but his complete lack of endeavour. It looked like his mind was elsewhere to be honest..
Our midfield didn’t quite tick on Wednesday night. Curtis Jones wasn’t at his best, and even the ultra-consistent Alexis Mac Allister looked a little leggy. Curtis can be incredible in some games but appears to struggle to do it week in/week out. I’m really pleased Dominik Szoboszlai has found his form again.
Up front I think we’re generally looking really good, and have options now Diogo Jota is fit again. Cody Gakpo is looking superb on the left, and Mo continues to astound us most weeks.
I’m loving this season; I really wasn’t expecting Arne Slot to hit the ground running as he has. We’re in an amazing position in both big competitions. I just hope their legs don’t give up before the end of May.
I’d like a couple of signings, but all of us will always say that! Isak in place of Nunez and Antonee Robinson as back up left back would do! I also worry a little around Jarell Quansah as centre-back cover. He looked an amazing prospect in the pre-season, but too many mistakes have crept into his game for my liking.
We’ve also got the ongoing drama around the three contracts. I’m not sure this helps the team, or the manager. Surely this needs to be addressed soon.
I’m sorry if you feel there’s too much negativity in this piece. I’m actually very positive, but the glimmer of potential silverware puts every one of us under a little more pressure. Back in the day when we were chasing top four the odd average result /performance could be shrugged off with ease, but now every point dropped is a drama.
I hope all of our first team get a few days off. Nottm Forest away next week will be really interesting, and I’m already counting down the days until our next league game. It’s an exciting time to be a Liverpool supporter; let’s not forget that!
Come on you mighty reds.
Til next time.
