Liverpool fans have been clamouring for new signings this transfer window as the problems have become prominent after their recent blip. The departure of Sadio Mane created a void and Klopp, despite his Houdini touch in getting the best out of players, hasn’t been able to replace him thus far. There haven’t been any sort of talks regarding new players, but one man who could potentially add some depth is Lazar Markovic, whose loan spell could be cut short.
The attacker has had a miserable time in the Primeira Liga, a league where he actually rose to prominence in his Benfica days under the same manager who is currently at the helm of Lisbon. Jorge Jesus certainly knew how to get the best out of him and dare I say it, even manage to make him look like a £20m attacker. Most of the Liverpool fans were hoping he could resurrect the Serbian’s fledgeling career, but that hasn’t been the case.
Still only 22, Markovic has the time on his side to turn around his career, but there are doubts if he can actually do that after little or no momentum under his belt of late. He’s been tried in almost every attacking position and hell, even as a wing back, but has often flattered to deceive.
Liverpool’s 4-3-3 system means the attackers do a lot of work. The versatility of the players allows the system to be flexible. Keeping that in mind, Markovic might not be the ideal player to have considering he’s struggled to make an impact. His strongest position is arguably as a number 10, although many would argue that he can be a good wide player from where he can use his pace and stretch defences.
Markovic has been most effective when used as a centre-forward and the stats back that up. But Klopp’s system doesn’t really have a fixed player behind the striker. In the 25 games he has played as a secondary striker, Markovic has mustered four goals and four assists.
His pace and drive on the counters is something that can be fruitful when he’s deployed in that role. Although he has shown ability in the wide areas, his decision making has often let him down and the likes of Lallana, Mane and Origi are better options.
Liverpool play a lot of games in the coming weeks and perhaps Markovic could be a good backup option as Klopp is likely to use his second string side for the FA Cup if not the League Cup. That’s arguably the only merit of his return.
