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Numbers underscore Liverpool star’s performance vs Lille in key first XI role
Kostas Tsimikas continues to put pressure on Andy Robertson for the starting left-back role at Liverpool with his LOSC Lille performance. Tsimikas played a crucial role once again for the Reds Arne Slot picked him to start two back-to-back games.
Tsimikas started against Brentford last weekend in the 0-2 away victory with Slot substituting the Greek in the 65th minute. The first-choice left-back Robertson has struggled with consistent form for Liverpool this season, resulting in more first-team appearances from Tsimikas.
Tsimikas played a crucial cameo against Nottingham Forest, assisting Portuguese forward Diogo Jota immediately after coming on as a substitute. Both the natural left-backs struggled with inconsistencies and injuries last season with their reliability at an all-time low this season.
However, these recent performances from the 28-year-old Greek could help the Reds finish the season strongly if he remains consistent. There are constant conversations in the transfer market about Liverpool searching for a left-back successor for the two available options.
Nevertheless, Tsimikas’ performance against Lille outlines his capacity to deliver when his Scottish teammate is struggling to perform for Liverpool. Fotmob stat revealed that Tsimikas created joint-most big chances (three) for Liverpool alongside forward Darwin Nunez against the French club.
The 28-year-old left-back made a total of 62 passes with 94% passing accuracy with nine passes into the final third. The Greek international enjoyed 82 touches during the game with one accurate cross and one accurate long-ball during the game.
Lille have enjoyed a good Champions League campaign due to their well-disciplined team, showcasing Tsimikas’ quality and persistence in attack. Defensively, Tsimikas won 100% tackles (two), one block, and two clearances while completing five defensive actions and making five recoveries.
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The Greek international also earned one foul while winning three duels for Liverpool against Lille during his all-round strong performance. There is an argument that Liverpool should still sign a left-back during January as it is now a necessity but Tsimikas’ performance negates some concerns that the fanbase had earlier this month.
