Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp had an interesting view on his club’s problems at the left-back area in his interview with the press ahead of the game at Burnley this weekend. Alberto Moreno, who has been singled out by the fans and the media as the weakest link in the current Liverpool squad, was once again frustrating as he conceded a penalty and was also caught out of position numerous times in Liverpool’s 4-3 victory at the Emirates. However, the manager, when asked about how he wants to address the problem, said that he does not actually have a problem. He was quick to deny that the Spaniard’s place in the side is in jeopardy and that he did not know of any shortcomings in a left-back position within the squad.
However, this interview came on the same day as Liverpool were linked with a move for a versatile central defender in Bruno Martins Indi. The Porto centre-back, who has been one of the most consistent players in his position in Europe, is a centre-half by trait but is more than comfortable playing as a full-back, a place Liverpool need to strengthen this summer. The 24-year old Dutch international is reportedly eyed as a replacement to Mamadou Sakho who might be a bit unsettled at the club. So what will Martins Indi add to Liverpool’s squad next season?
Having played 31 games for the Dutch national team already, the 24-year old has gathered experience way beyond his years. He is a strong centre-half who has good technique and even better understanding of the game. His concentration levels are high and he is hardly prone to any mistakes at the back, a trait that has become all too common for Liverpool for almost 2 years now. He stays as far away from reckless tackles as he can and is a disciplined centre back every manager would love to have in their team. He is a good passer, and can find his man even under pressure and all his attributes make him a perfect fit in the Premier League.
Liverpool did not seem to have shaken off the defensive problems even with all the additions in the summer. They are missing Joel Matip and Mamadou Sakho through injury and though both players are scheduled to come back in a month’s time, Klopp seems to be looking at extra cover for his back four.
Martins Indi may not be able to start games at Anfield with Dejan Lovren and Ragnar Klavan looking settled for at least a few games but he might be given a shot at the left-back position. Though Klopp spoke about not needing a left-back and named James Milner and Trent Alexander-Arnold as the covers for Moreno, he will know that the Spaniard can be a liability over the course of the season and will want a player who can take his place. Martins Indi seems to be a superb option for the Reds.
However, it is to be seen if FC Porto, Martins Indi’s current team, are ready to let him go this summer. Do you think Liverpool need Martins Indi this summer?
