Liverpool have had a jolly good time of things this season, but even the most optimistic fan will be savvy to the fact that there are some major weaknesses within this squad. They’ve got by pretty well this season, but I’d argue that’s largely down to the lack of European action and a lack of injuries throughout their squad.
Next season, these weaknesses could rise to the fore when they’re forced to compete on multiple fronts. Brendan Rodgers needs to make sure that he’s got a squad that’s ready to deal with these additional demands.
In particular, I think he needs to look at Liverpool’s defence. The Reds have got by largely on the back of their two world-beating strikers out-scoring any teams they’ve come across. It’s rare that they’ve got through a game thanks to a staunch, defensive performance.
Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel can be fantastic on their day, but they’re both getting on in years. Liverpool’s other options, players like Kolo Toure, don’t exactly inspire. Then there’s the club’s full-backs, who have also left something to be desired this season. That’s particularly true of loanee Aly Cissokho, who will move back to Valencia in the summer.
Let’s hope that Brendan Rodgers is already drawing up a list of potential targets (not that he doesn’t have other pressing concerns!).
As it happens, The Metro recently published an article linking Liverpool to Borussia Dortmund’s flying full-back, Marcel Schmelzer.
The 26-year-old would come with plenty of experience and pedigree. He’s played football at the top level for a number of years now. He’s racked up almost 200 appearances for Dortmund and he has 16 caps for Germany.
Whilst most left-backs either tend to excel defensively or offensively, Schmelzer is adept at both. He’s a diligent defender, who works hard, tracks back and loves to slide into tackles. When he gets forward, he’s certainly proven to have a mean cross on him.
The Metro claim that Schmelzer could cost as much as £10m. That’s a lot of money, but it should be within The Reds’ financial reach. If Brendan has singled the German ace out as a transfer target, then he should be able to get his man.
What’s your take? Would Marcel Schmelzer be a good addition to this Liverpool squad? Are there other options that Brendan Rodgers should be considering?
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