Many of Liverpool’s stars failed to deliver as they fell short against Manchester United
Reds fans are starting to get a little worried right now, and for good reason too, with their club now on a run of four successive losses.
Losing to Manchester United was the worst possible outcome, and it has left many questioning whether Liverpool can still keep their hopes of retaining the Premier League title alive.
Arne Slot is now facing serious pressure to make bold decisions, with several players underperforming in recent weeks. One of the biggest calls the Dutchman may have to make involves a new signing who simply hasn’t found his rhythm.
Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol appears to have made his mind up, launching yet another scathing attack on one player he believes is “petrified” every time he steps on the pitch.
Steve Nicol Slams Milos Kerkez for His Man United Performance
One of the major talking points this season has been Milos Kerkez’s form at left-back. The Hungarian full-back arrived with high expectations, but his transition to life at Anfield has been far from smooth.
His performance against Manchester United was another difficult watch for supporters, as Bryan Mbuemo repeatedly exposed his flank throughout the contest. It was a continuation of a worrying trend that has seen Liverpool’s left side become a clear target for opposition attacks.
After several weeks of criticism, Nicol finally appears to have reached breaking point with the young defender. Speaking on ESPN FC, the ex-Red didn’t hold back in his assessment of Kerkez’s struggles.
“Kerkez at left-back just looks scared,” Nicol said. “Everything he does is just negative. Every time he gets the ball he goes backwards, and every time someone runs at him, he looks petrified. As a unit, this Liverpool side just don’t play as one. They have not played as a team all season.”
Milos Kerkez Needs a Spell Out of the Team
It’s important to remember that Kerkez is still only 21 years old and very much in the early stages of his development. The step up from Bournemouth to Liverpool was always going to be a challenge, and the pressure of replacing a player like Andy Robertson makes it even harder.
There’s no doubt the young full-back has potential, but right now, his confidence looks shot. Slot may need to protect him from further scrutiny by taking him out of the firing line for a few games.
Giving him the chance to watch and learn from Robertson could do wonders for his growth. It would also help Liverpool regain some defensive stability on the left side — something they’ve sorely lacked during this rough patch.
This isn’t the time to panic, but it is the time to be smart. Kerkez’s ability is not in question, but his composure is. A short break from the starting lineup might be exactly what he needs to rediscover his confidence and come back stronger for the challenges ahead.