Recently reports (The Scottish Sun) had emerged that Steven Gerrard was unhappy with certain first-team players when they played against Liverpool’s u-23 in a friendly game. The Gers went in 4-0 down at the half time, and Gerrard was left infuriated with the lack of desire of some of his players. One player who was mentioned in those report was Croatian left-back Borna Barisic. The report also indicated that the Gers could look to sell him in the upcoming summer transfer window.
However, the former Osijek fullback recently gave an update on the situation and said that the media had blown the matter out of proportions. The defender believes that he will continue to remain a key part of the squad. Barisic was quoted as saying (Daily Record), ”This has been taken out of context. The only truth here is that I have been injured and I have found it hard to get into the team that is in great shape.”
“We’ve won five in a row and conceded just one goal, so of course it’s not easy to get back into the team. Rangers are a big club with great players, and it’s not easy to get back into the side. As far as my relationship with the coach, it’s all great with me. I had two weeks out because of my injury with the national team. I got back training and played in a friendly match.”
What has been Barisic’s issue?
The fullback was signed with a lot of gung ho after he impressed against Rangers in the Europa League qualifiers. The fact that the defender was making it to the Croatian national team suggested that Gerrard and Co were getting a gem of a player.
After an excellent start to the season, the Croatian left-back fizzled out, and injuries have been a real problem with him. However, when he made the comeback, the 26-year-old hasn’t looked the same. His crossing has been below par on occasions, and the fullback also lacks the desire and commitment.
In terms of just footballing abilities, Barisic is ahead of someone like Andy Halliday, but the latter often showed more willingness to work for his team. That is the reason why the Scotsman started ahead of him on numerous occasions.
Should Gerrard sell Barisic?
We feel that the Croatian should be given another year to prove himself as it is never easy for someone coming from a different league. Injuries have also played its part, and once the defender gets to full fitness, we feel that he could go on to improve.
