Liverpool’s growing defensive problems have received a backer in the form of former Manchester City centre-half Richard Dunne. The defender says that Liverpool need to address their problems and sign a quality defender. Dunne says that Liverpool must concentrate on finding a suitable defender once the winter transfer window opens. He opines that the ones we have are not the right ones as they are a “little bit mentally weak”.
“Liverpool need a centre-half. The ones they’ve got are the wrong ones,” Dunne told Irish radio station Newstalk, (h/t The Sport Review).
“They’ve not performed well. The centre-halves are a little bit mentally weak. They can be bullied. They can make the wrong decisions.”
The former City defender says that Liverpool should look for a defender. He does not want us to buy another striker as we have enough firepower in our ranks.
His concern seems genuine as the Reds are struggling to stop leaking goals, despite their prowess at the other end of the pitch. No side in the top seven of the Premier League has conceded more goals than us. That is an ignominious record to boast!
On 7 occasions this season in all competitions, we have conceded two or more goals in a game. That is outrageous, considering the fact that we are eyeing a top-4 spot, if not the title. Our first and second choice defenders Dejan Lovren, Ragnar Klavan, and Joel Matip have all struggled.
At various points of time this season, each of them looked good. But at most of the times, I feel they’ve looked rubbish. They are definitely not up to the standard we are used to at Anfield; at least not as consistent as we want them to be.
Considering these, it is a little surprising that manager Jurgen Klopp has steered clear of the discussions around signing a new centre-half. The only thing he has clarified so far is ruling out the early arrival of Keita from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig.
Do you agree with Dunne’s assessment? It may seem harsh but give it a thought and we will definitely agree with that. Whatever may be the reason, these defenders look out of touch with our standards and we need a leader to be signed sooner than later.
Be it Virgil van Dijk or anyone else, the need of the hour is to sign a proven defender who can improve the squad.
