Former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch has been speaking about the areas in which we need to invest in if we are to retain our Premier League title.
What’s been said?
Our first game of the season against Leeds United did not go entirely to plan. Despite winning the game, Jurgen Klopp’s had to fight hard but eventually got over the line with a 4-3 victory against the new boys of the top tier.
There has been concerns from segments of the fanbase regarding a lack of signings this summer, and how this could be a negative incitement as we head into unchartered territory.
Virgil van Dijk made a catastrophic error which saw Patrick Bamford score. While he was accused of being “arrogant”, I believe he just looked tired. Which is why defensive reinforcements would not be such a bad idea.
Do Liverpool need to sign a centre-back?
Yes
No
Crouch answered a question from a fan called Andy on social media, writing his response as to whether we need to bolster their squad via his Daily Mail column.
“They do, Andy”, he said. “It’s never a bad thing to bring in new players to freshen things up. Liverpool are still my idea of champions and their squad is fantastic but there are always areas that need some investment.
“I looked at the defence against Leeds. They have got three great players in Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip but I believe they could do with another addition there, as I wouldn’t want to see Fabinho used as the fourth-choice central defender.
“Look at the second goal they conceded, to Patrick Bamford. It was a rare mistake by Van Dijk that had a hint of complacency about it. Does he make the same mistake if Liverpool have signed a central defender this summer and pressure is being applied to his place? Competition raises your standards by an extra one or two per cent.”
Top priority
There is no doubt in my mind that Crouch is absolutely right with his views. The departure of Dejan Lovren has left us in a vulnerable position as far as potential fitness issues are concerned.
Both Joe Gomez and Joel Matip picked up injuries in the last 12 months. The Englishman had to pull through a blow to his Achilles tendon while the Cameroonian powerhouse was forced out with a serious knee injury.
If the same were to happen again, Van Dijk would be the only established centre back available for selection, which would seriously hamper our chance of Premier League glory once more.
Whatever happens, the Reds need to bring someone in. Not just any defender but someone that can do a competent job at the back.