Danny Murphy on how Quansah’s emergence may solve Liverpool’s defensive worries
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy believes young defender Jarell Quansah‘s impressive start against Wolves could help solve potential issues in the Reds’ backline.
With defender Ibrahima Konate injured, captain Virgil van Dijk suspended and Trent Alexander-Arnold absent, 20-year-old academy product Quansah made his first Premier League start against Wolves. Despite early struggles, Liverpool rallied to win 3-1.
In a video on Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel FIVE (h/t Liverpool Echo) Murphy praised how Quansah performed, saying the center-back “did really well” and has emerged at the right time.
“The only area of concern with Liverpool has been at the back because a lot of people say, ‘without Konate, who’s going to cover Trent when he goes missing? Matip, although he’s been great, maybe he’s lost his legs’. And this young lad’s emerging and seems to be answering a few of those questions. Quansah, he’s been at Liverpool since he was a kid. Young lad, tall, he’s graceful. Did really well, I thought he did well.”
Liverpool’s defense has come under scrutiny amid injury issues for Konate and the unavailability of Van Dijk and Alexander Arnold. But Quansah’s poise and skills may give Jurgen Klopp a timely new option to strengthen the backline.
The 6 ft 3 in Quansah recently debuted for Liverpool’s first team against Newcastle after a 6-month loan at Bristol Rovers, substituting for Joel Matip. But the young defender has swiftly made an excellent impression since joining the senior squad.
He exhibited composure and strong defensive abilities while helping Liverpool deliver an assured performance at Molineux Stadium, belying his youth.
Quansah might become one of Liverpool’s most important players
If Quansah can build on his solid debut and Konate returns to full fitness along with Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold playing in the starting XI, the Reds may have the squad depth needed to mount another title challenge. Klopp has repeatedly promoted academy talents effectively to supplement transfers.
With his rapid development, Quansah could be the next Liverpool academy player to break through, following the path of Alexander-Arnold, Jones, and others. His emergence demonstrates Liverpool’s dedication to advancing talented youngsters, a tradition they hope Quansah continues. And if the 20-year-old follows through, Klopp will no longer need to worry about signing a new defender.
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Quansah will likely face stiff competition for starts given Liverpool’s veteran core. But the early signs suggest the Reds may have unearthed yet another promising homegrown player. The England international has already received high praise from team captain Van Dijk. With Konate’s injury history, Quansah could prove a vital deputy this season and beyond.
