Micah Richards used an absurd reason to defend England manager Gareth Southgate for not picking in-form Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah
Micah Richards argued that playing alongside Virgil van Dijk caused England manager Gareth Southgate to ignore Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah. Richards added that Quansah would not play if Liverpool had every player available, citing that he is not a regular.
The absurd defence ignored the fact that Jurgen Klopp brought Quansah for 13 minutes when 10-men Liverpool played Newcastle United. The 21-year-old has regularly featured in the Europa League and the Carabao Cup, marking this season as his breakthrough.
Quansah has established himself in the senior team squad, and the Liverpool coaching staff has been rotating him with other defenders. The England U21 has delivered numerous fantastic performances, showing consistency and qualities alongside maturity to play alongside his senior teammates.
The 21-year-old has maintained his calmness on and off the ball, playing opponents like Manchester City in the crucial fixtures. Quansah has made 26 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool, contributing with a goal and three assists this season.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast (h/t Mirror), Richards claimed that Van Dijk’s influence played a role in Southgate ignoring Quansah. He said:
“He’s not played every single game and he probably wouldn’t be playing if other players were fit. I think the factor of playing alongside [Virgil] Van Dijk has obviously helped him. If it were say Quansah and Gomez, and he was playing at the same level, I’d probably agree that [he should be in England contention].”
Southgate has earned a reputation for playing favourites while England are well-known for providing opportunities according to the media rambling. The non-stop agenda cycle has provided an early opportunity to Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo during the March International Break.
Mainoo started playing for United after breaking into the squad after the November international break yet he avoided these excuses. Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones are still waiting for their opportunities despite being first-team regulars at Liverpool.
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Both Elliott and Curtis have played a crucial role for the Reds this season as they competed for multiple trophies. Several talented players deserve chances at the international level but they don’t play for a “top” club.
England has played favouritism towards individuals who play for certain clubs while ignoring the rest which has cost them dearly as well. Quansah has shown the form and consistency that is deserving of an international callup which he will get eventually.
