#3 Sort the defence
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It is no secret that Liverpool lack a defence worthy of winning a title. This has been the case close to a decade now, from the end of Rafa Benitez’s tenure. The lack of quality defence who can stand tall in big moments is a far cry for Liverpool.
Also Read: EPL 2016/17: 5 players Jurgen Klopp MUST bring to Liverpool next season
Joel Matip definitely bolstered the defence this season and he brings with him the necessary ball-playing skills as well. On the other hand, Dejan Lovren can be the world’s best one day and look like a defender from the Sunday League on another. The lack of consistency is a major flaw for Lovren and Liverpool in general.
Another problem with both Matip and Lovren is the lack of durability which is very important for a team’s defence is based on organization. The central defenders are the orchestrators for it and the absence of continuity causes uncertainty and loss of confidence for the team as a whole.
Ragnar Klavan was brought in only as a back-up and young Joe Gomez will take time to realise his immense potential. Therefore, signing a top, durable and commanding centre-back should be one of the top priorities this summer. Virgil van Dijk ticks all the boxes but will be difficult to acquire due to his transfer value and competition. Either way, such a defender is a must-buy for Jurgen Klopp.
Another problem of Liverpool’s defence are the full-backs. Nathaniel Clyne durable as well as reliable but his attacking game has not grown much this season. James Milner did pretty well as a makeshift left-back but he is right-footed and that slowed down many an attack this season. Klopp’s system requires full-backs to maraud their entire wing with aplomb.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has a bright future ahead of him but needs to improve his defensive work to claim a first-team spot ahead of Clyne. Alberto Moreno, meanwhile, looks favourite to leave this summer and a proper left-back is already a priority.
