While there were plenty of stand-out performers for Liverpool during what was an unforgettable season, there were some that didn’t feature as much as they would have liked to.
One of which was Xherdan Shaqiri. For several reasons, he has been absent for a large majority of the 2019/20 title-winning campaign for Jurgen Klopp’s side. Firstly, his reoccurring calf injury has been a persistent problem for the Switzerland international since his £13m move from Stoke City two years ago.
It appears that the second reason was simply down to the German tactician’s decision-making. Following his side’s 5-2 victory against Everton in the Merseyside Derby, he apologised to Shaqiri after starting him in that game which was his first in seven months.
Although Shaqiri has had a difficult time at Liverpool, it is no surprise that he has found himself watching from the sidelines. Both Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane have been in unstoppable form and have both played a huge part in helping them capture their first league title since 1990.
Should Liverpool sell Shaqiri this summer?
Yes
No
Having been linked with Roma and Galatasaray on loan back in January, he understandably became more vocal about his lack of first-team opportunities having only started twice in the Premier League, with many suggesting that his time at Anfield looks to be over.
But much more recently, the Reds’ outgoing goalkeeper Andy Lonergan was talking about how astonishing the Swiss midfielder has been during training sessions at Melwood, describing him as a “little magician”.
Goals against Manchester United and Everton have placed him into Anfield folklore and the club’s history books, illustrating that he still has so much more to give in the famous red shirt. Of course, it must be frustrating for him to not get any game time after impressing so many on the training pitches with his work-rate and his technical ability.
With the club pulling out of a move for Timo Werner, it would be in Klopp’s best interests to keep hold of Shaqiri as he can continue to be an effective squad player in his position.