Liverpool recall 22-year-old on-loan star amidst brewing defensive crisis

Liverpool cut short Nathaniel Phillips loan at VfB Stuttgart

Liverpool have recalled 22-year-old center-back, Nathaniel Phillips, from a loan spell at German side VfB Stuttgart. (h/t Liverpoolfc)

Phillips who joined the 2.Bundesliga side in the summer has made 11 appearances during his stay in Germany. (h/t Daily Mail)

The decision to recall Phillips could be an indication that injured center-back duo Joel Matip and Dejan Lovren’s layoffs are worse than feared.

With Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk the only fit centre-backs, Liverpool could find themselves in a pickle if either of the players are injured or suspended.

With Fabinho also out injured, the Reds have no one who can deputize in the heart of the defence.

Such a situation came to the fore at the Club World Cup when captain Jordan Henderson had to step in as an emergency centre-back for the unwell Van Dijk in the semifinals against Monterrey.

With the games coming thick and fast as the Reds go into the business end of the season, the club have made a good decision in recalling a player who can fill in if required.

Phillips will return to Merseyside at the beginning of January and will be eligible to appear in the FA Cup tie against Everton on January 5.

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Having impressed Klopp in the pre-season tour of the United States, Phillips moved to Stuttgart in search of regular playtime to boost his development. (h/t Mirror)

Phillips was an unused member of the Liverpool squad that won our 6th European cup in Madrid. (h/t Daily Mail)

He will have a chance to showcase his credentials as Liverpool chase a first league title in 30 years.