Liverpool had a heartbreaking final against Sevilla in the Europa League as the team from Merseyside squandered a half-time lead and lost by a margin of two goals. The Reds have had major defensive problems throughout this season and this is not the first time that they have lost a match from a winning position. One playing position that has troubled Jurgen Klopp is the left-back position. Alberto Moreno had been their first choice left-back for the majority of the season. His abilities to make attacking runs and crosses was good, but there were always questions with his defensive abilities. Even in the final, he was guilty of giving away possession leading to the first goal and was caught out of position many a times. Liverpool had signed Joe Gomez at the start of the season, but his prolonged injury did not allow him a chance to impress his new manager and fans.
Jonas Hector – a possible replacement
The Reds have been heavily linked with the FC Koln fullback Jonas Hector for a summer transfer. The 26 year old German international has been in good form for his club and has been on the transfer radar for quite some time. Jurgen Klopp has reportedly made an approach for the full-back and he is valued at 12m pounds. Hector has had a good season with FC Koln and was also given the call for the German national team by Low. He has made 32 appearances for the club in the season and has impressive numbers in terms of interceptions and tackles. This goes to show his defensive abilities as a full-back.
Where does he fit in?
Jurgen Klopp has had a good impact in his first season and his tactics are gradually settling in at Anfield. His priorities for the summer are to solve the defensive woes for Liverpool. Klopp has already signed Schalke defender Joel Matip and the second position on his priority list must be the full-back position. Klopp will be looking for a left-back who is not just good with making runs and delivering crosses, but is also solid when it comes to defending and marking. Hector is one such talent who fits the bill as he is known to make strong challenges and is consistent with his defending. His aerial strength is also one thing which will help the Reds to defend set pieces better. If the Reds get their hand on Hector, their defensive woes might get reduced for the next season.
