Steven Gerrard made as many as 15 signings in the summer, and there were bound to be some players who wouldn’t get a look into the first team soon. One of them is Albanian winger Eros Grezda who has been waiting in the wings (yes, pun intended) to get his chance. So far Steven Gerrard has preferred Daniel Candeias over Grezda on the right flank, and we are of the opinion that Grezda should soon be given a start in the playing eleven especially after the Gers put in a shambolic performance against Livingston in the league.
The Albanian has so far featured in just two games as a substitute playing close to 50 minutes of football. The winger’s little cameos were impressive as he showcased he can beat his marker with pace and acceleration when on the ball.
Maybe Gerrard is keeping him ready for the big Europa League clash against Rapid Wien. The manager hasn’t hesitated in giving a new player a run in the team in big games as we saw Gerrard sprung up a surprise by giving Joe Worrall his debut against Villarreal. So we cannot count out Grezda making his full debut against Rapid Wien.
Former Italian footballer and current Albanian national team coach Christain Panucci claimed that Grezda could be worth £20m in a few years and we believe he needs to start playing now to showcase his worth. The 23-year-old was brought in after Jamie Murphy suffered his season-ending injury. The Albanian himself was injured when he was brought in, and he has taken time to get back to full fitness.
Grezda has all the capabilities to be the man for Gerrard as along with his pace; he has showcased willingness to track back and help his team out defensively. The former Liverpool legend is trying to instil the quality of defending as a team and Grezda’s work rate and ethic is undoubtedly one of his strong aspects as the winger gives his 100 percent when he is on the pitch.
Another reason why he should get his chance soon is that Candeias has put in some average performance off late. The Portuguese winger is industrious and hard working but lacks the quality to beat his man on one on one situation. When he can go past them, he lacks in his final delivery as his crosses fail to beat the first man on many occasions.
The game against Livingston was clear evidence as the Teddy Bears lacked creativity and someone who could take the game by the scruff of the neck. Candeias hasn’t done too poorly but Grezda looks like a good upgrade for us. Sitting out will also push Candeias to pick up his performance, and one might see Gerrard pull of a significant change by giving Grezda a start in the Europa League game
