Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has suggested that he won’t be looking to sign a defensive midfielder in the upcoming transfer window.
The German made the revelation when speaking to the club’s official website after the Reds had played against Sydney FC in a post-season friendly match in Australia.
Liverpool recorded a 3-0 victory thanks to goals from Daniel Sturridge, Alberto Moreno and Roberto Firmino.
When asked whether he needed to add another defensive midfielder to the set up, Klopp replied: “Second balls after set-pieces, another defensive midfielder would not really be around this situation so it does not help a lot.
“Half-spaces when counter-pressing does not work, another defensive midfielder [does not help], it’s all about organisation. We did already much better in the last few games and we improved around set-pieces a lot.”
These comments might be regarded as surprising because Liverpool have struggled to prevent teams from scoring against them throughout the league season.
The Reds conceded 42 goals in the Premier League this campaign – the most goals conceded amongst the teams who finished in the top four.
Liverpool seem to be short in the defensive midfield department with Germany international Emre Can the only player who is really comfortable playing in that position.
Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva can also play in the position but he is being linked with a move away from Anfield in the summer.
Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson is set to return to action next season following a serious foot injury so Klopp might feel that the Englishman and Emre Can are sufficient enough cover in the defensive midfield role.