Liverpool legend John Aldridge questions the defensive ability of Kostas Tsimikas as they face league-leaders Manchester City on Saturday
Liverpool legend John Aldridge shared his doubts about Kostas Tsimikas ahead of the Premier League game against Manchester City. The Liverpool legend pointed out the lapses of concentration that makes the Greek international vulnerable defensively.
Since the October international break, a long-term shoulder injury has sidelined primary left-back Andy Robertson. The Reds have deployed both Tsimikas and Gomez as the left-backs according to the tactics preferred by manager Jurgen Klopp.
Liverpool have conceded goals first in many games throughout this season despite having a good defensive record overall. The Merseyside giants have conceded the least number of goals at level with Arsenal in the Premier League.
In his weekly column at Liverpool Echo, Aldridge explained that Gomez is a better defensive option than Tsimikas. He wrote:
“I’d say Joe Gomez over Kostas Tsimikas as he’s a better defender. That’s the way I’d go but you’ve got to trust the manager, be able to defend there and not get caught out. Tsimikas sometimes has those lapses in concentration that you can’t afford to have against Man City – you’ve got to be 100 percent on it, ready to defend.”
Liverpool signed Tsimikas from the Greek club Olympiacos for £11.75m in the summer of 2020. The 27-year-old is currently playing his fourth season at the English club, serving as a backup to Robertson.
The Greek international has incredible technique and attacking qualities but he has been susceptible to making defensive lapses. Tsimikas has made 10 appearances for the Reds in all competition this season while providing two assists.
The 27-year-old made a critical error during the 3-2 loss against Toulouse in the Europa League Group E game. Tsimikas lost possession, resulting in Toulouse’s first goal by Aron Donnum in the 36th minute.
Kostas Tsimikas and @MoSalah linking up to double our lead in #LIVBRE #TeamPixel | #AD pic.twitter.com/8wHkzPT9Xk
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) November 12, 2023
Nevertheless, the Greek international remains an important part of Liverpool’s senior team and a good backup for Robertson. The 27-year-old provided two assists in the 3-0 win against Brentford during the Premier League game at Anfield.
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Aldridge made a valid point about Tsimikas while talking about his lapse of concentration and complacency. The Reds cannot take any moment for granted on and off the ball against the treble-winning City. Only one point separates the two clubs at the top as they collide at the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League shaping fixture.
