Liverpool's Defense: Liverpool's goalkeeping situation; What does Andrew Robertson bring, an
- Zamaan Qureshi
- Oct 19, 2017
- 3 min read
Loris Karius/Simon Mignolet
Back in Europes elite, the Champions League with a less than difficult group (on paper). Klopp choosing Karius has his Champions League goalkeeper has certainly raised some eyebrows. The Liverpool goalkeeper has fallen under so much criticism, that pundits new all eyes would be on the German during the match. Having kept a cleans sheet against Crystal Palace, Maribor, Arsenal, the expectation was that Jurgen Klopp would name an unchanged back 4 + goalkeeper throughout the season as much as he could. Liverpool have struggled to keep clean sheets over the past couple seasons under Jurgen Klopp and have tried the tactic of outscoring their opponents based on their firepower. But that hasn't always worked out. Klopp's display of a continued dependence on a squad to try and sure up the defense has been highlighted by his continuation. However, new signing Andrew Robertson has had a profound effect on the position of left-back despite only making two appearances all season thus far. Here is an analysis of what Andrew Robertson brings, the back 4 situation.
Andrew Robertson/Alberto Moreno
Having signed for a mere £10 million from Hull City, Liverpool fans had relatively low expectations for the Scotsman, even after seeing him in preseason. However, Robertson proved everyone wrong with a Man of the Match performance against Crystal Palace. It is clear that since James Milner, a hybrid left-back, that Liverpool have missed a left-footed inswinger like Andrew Roberson. But there is something lethal about Robertson's crosses that not Nathaniel Clyne, Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alberto Moreno, or James Milner have been able to provide on a consistent basis. With a total of 10 crosses as well as a lethal shot palmed over by Wayne Hennessey, it is clear that Robertson has more to offer than meets the eye.
Robertson began is footballing career with Queens Park F.C. in Glasgow making 34 appearances and scoring 2 goals. Robertson was actually on the brink of staring University and focusing on his studies before Queens Park came knocking. After just a year with Queens Park, Robertson joined Dundee United, another Scottish club, as he tried to kickstart his career. He immediately became a first-team player and was playing every week for Dundee. It was that same season he was named PFA Scottish Young Player of the Year and then sealed a £2.85 million move to Hull City where he made 99 appearances and scored 3 goals.
While Robertson's move may, on paper, look like a good one, it could prove much better than expected. When Simon Mignolet was dropped last season in favor of Loris Karius, Mignolet made an immediate jump in form and fought his way back into the Liverpool side. So far, Spaniard Alberto Moreno looks to be in much better form after Robertson's arrival. And the continued effect of the arrival of new players behind some of the ones who have settled into a starting role may keep the players on their feet. Moreno has by far stepped up his match performances this season and much of that can be attributed to the arrival of Robertson. However, if Moreno fails to perform, Robertson will be licking his lips for the opportunity. It's an internal battle that will be closely followed throughout the season.
