In a recent interview with Swiss newspaper Langenthaler Tagblatt, Liverpool wide player Xherdan Shaqiri expressed his frustrations over lack of game time under Jurgen Klopp’s tutelage this season. The Swiss sensation did not shy away from addressing his current situation at Anfield with Langenthaler Tagblatt (translated by the Daily Mirror) and said, “I’m disappointed that I did not play anymore. Nobody likes to sit on the bench.
“It’s clear that I want more time. I have to look at the situation and find a solution.”
Shaqiri Has Fallen Down The Pecking Order At Anfield
It is no surprise that a player of Shaqiri’s skillset is not happy with the lack of first-team opportunities at Merseyside. However, Klopp has a plethora of options to choose from when it comes to attacking talents with Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane still being his preferred choice to start regularly in the Premier League.
Klopp has relied on Divock Origi and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain more often than on Shaqiri so far this season. Therefore, if the former Stoke City attacker’s situation doesn’t change in the coming months, then there is a real chance that Liverpool might lose him when the transfer window reopens in January.
For now, Shaqiri has to accept his reserved role and try to make a positive impact off the Reds bench when Klopp calls upon his services.
What Does The Swiss Speedster Offer On The Field?
Shaqiri appeared in 30 matches for the Merseyside giants last season, finding the back of the net on six occasions while also contributing with five assists in all competitions. He put some memorable displays off the Liverpool bench as evidenced by his match-winning cameo versus Manchester United at Anfield in the 2018-19 Premier League campaign.
The Swiss international boasts blistering pace and can complete some penetrative dribbles in the final third. Shaqiri is not afraid to take on his marker and create some decent opportunities for his teammates in the final third. However, he needs to add more end-product to his game and perform consistently at a high level if he wants to play more for Liverpool this season.
Does Shaqiri Have A Future With The Reds?
Either way, the 27-year-old will be in for a make or break season at the Merseyside club, so if he cannot establish himself as a regular starter under Klopp, it is likely that he wouldn’t stay at Anfield for long.
