In a recent television segment with ESPN, Liverpool legend Steve Nicol urged his old club to go for Leicester City midfielder James Maddison during the summer transfer window. Nicol told ESPN (transcripted by the Daily Express), “Klopp’s recent three in the middle of the park for Liverpool, over the last couple of years particularly, has been about gaining possession back, about closing the opposition back, about working really hard and then getting the ball to the front three.
“I would love to see a little change in that with somebody like Maddison, who no question has already shown in the Premier League, from the middle of the park, he can open defences up, he can create chances.”
The 57-year-old went on to add, “I think he will eventually score more goals than he is doing right now.
“I would love to see this. It would be a little change in the way that Klopp operated. But I think this would be a great signing.”
Liverpool’s Lack Of Invention In Midfield This Season
There is no doubt that Steve Nicol makes some good points regarding Maddison’s creativity in midfield and how the Reds have lacked some invention from their current midfield options at the club. Hence, the Foxes playmaker can thrive at the red half of Merseyside while playing under the watchful eyes of Jurgen Klopp.
The German boss has shown in the past that he knows the secret behind getting the best out of his young players. The recent emergence of players such as Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson should serve as proof that Klopp can be an ideal man-manager at Anfield.
What Will The English Midfielder Add To Klopp’s Side?
Maddison boasts decent pace and is quite a difficult man to stop when he is dribbling with the ball. However, his main strengths are his ability to create plays in the opposition half. Furthermore, he can also score goals from distance which makes him a force to be reckoned with at the centre of the park.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a stellar Premier League campaign after putting a series of match-winning displays at the King Power Stadium during this season. The former Coventry City starlet has made 37 appearances for the Foxes this term, scoring seven goals while grabbing seven assists across all competitions. However, the Leicester sensation is yet to make his international debut for Gareth Southgate’s England national team.
Will Maddison Be A Good Choice For The Reds?
He would undoubtedly bolster Klopp’s midfield options at the Merseyside club. Hence, Liverpool should listen to Nicol’s advice and consider making a move to secure Maddison’s services in the offseason.
