Liverpool head coach Jürgen Klopp may already be regretting his latest transfer game
Liverpool FC – Aston Villa – Premier League
Jurgen Klopp could defend himself this weekend
Last year Liverpool were punished for not investing in midfield and in 12 months, the same mistake could be repeated in Jurgen Klopp’s defence. Liverpool spent the entire summer transfer window making changes in midfield with the departures of James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita, Fabinho and Jordan Henderson.
New arrivals were needed and there were already promising signs from Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister, while Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenbercnh will certainly be needed at some point. But Liverpool’s summer business stalled when they opted not to strengthen their defensive line. Given the health concerns of Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip in recent years, Liverpool were expected to sign another central defender. Virgil van Dijk remained at the heart of Liverpool’s backline but will not be available for the weekend clash with Wolves after his suspension was extended. Of more concern, however, is Trent Alexander-Arnold’s knock, which has ruled him out of England international duty. The right-back is injured after pulling a hamstring against Aston Villa, a problem that could prove Liverpool wrong for not bringing in more defence.
Liverpool FC – Aston Villa – Premier League
Jarell Quansah might be needed to start
Konate is still recovering from his own injury problem, leaving Klopp short for the game against Wolves. The Liverpool boss could find himself forced to start 20-year-old Jarell Quansah alongside Matip as Gomez is pushed to the right. Quansah has impressed with his two starring appearances this season, notably in Liverpool’s 2-1 win against Newcastle. But Liverpool’s rivals don’t have the same concerns in defence, having patched up their shortcomings this summer.