Clinton Morrison claims Manchester City star Rodri would transform Liverpool
Former Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison believes that a player like Manchester City’s Rodri would transform Liverpool. In other words, Clinton Morrison discovers that water is wet. In all seriousness though, spot on analysis from him, and fair play. Ever since the departure of Fabinho in the summer transfer window, the Reds have had to do with a makeshift number 6 in Alexis Mac Allister.
In his absence, Wataru Endo has been trying hard to put in a shift but it is clear that the physicality of the Premier League is proving to be a tall order for him, and he probably requires some time before he adjusts to the rhythm and the style of play in England. In the absence of a pure #6, what might help the Reds is a small tweak in the way we lineup.
Instead of one holding and two central midfielders, we could also line up with two central midfielders and one attacking midfielder. After all, we have someone like Dominik Szoboszlai who would fit in that #10 role like a glove. But considering what has brought success to Liverpool is the 4-3-3 holding set-up, there’s absolutely nothing wrong in continuing with that.
However, we do not possess a strong #6, and considering Endo will take some time before he adjusts to the Premier League, a temporary shift to a new setup might work for the Reds. Clinton Morrison rightly mentioned that a player like Man City’s Rodri would help transform Liverpool. Here is what he had to say on the BBC Radio Five Live Football Daily Podcast :
“You know what Fletch, throw this one, if Liverpool got Rodri they’d have the perfect midfield. It’s a simple as that. They miss that number six and Rodri is the best at the moment or even Declan Rice who has been outstanding at Arsenal. The best for me is Rodri at the moment,”
A Dilemma for JK and Co.
As easy as that sounds, bringing about a player like Rodri or Declan Rice to Liverpool might have JW Henry put up the Boston Red Sox as collateral to the bank.
For Liverpool’s current situation, as already mentioned, manager Jurgen Klopp has experimented with makeshift solutions, primarily relying on Alexis Mac Allister in the number 6 role. However, the Argentine midfielder’s performances have left a lot to be desired, stressing the need for a more established and physically imposing presence in that crucial position.
Morrison’s insight offers a realistic perspective on Liverpool’s midfield dilemma. While tactical adjustments may provide temporary relief, the long-term solution lies in securing a quality holding midfielder akin to Rodri.
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- Liverpool retain impressive fifth spot in the latest UEFA club rankings
Hopefully, the January transfer window offers some relief as we hope that a natural and more importantly, strong and proven defensive midfielder makes his way to La Axa. The task demands diligence and an extensive examination of players who possess the attributes necessary for the number six role.
