WITHOUT Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez, Liverpool are missing their two quickest defenders.
Their absence has affected them scoring goals, not conceding them.
Virgil van Dijk has been out of action since the Merseyside derbyCredit: Getty – Pool
Joe Gomez is another defender unlikely to play again this seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Since the game with Everton in October, they have not conceded more than ONE goal in a Premier League game.
But they have not recaptured that free scoring ability this season after failing to net in four of their last six.
The pace that both VVD and Gomez possess was central to Jurgen Klopp’s high intensity style.
Last season, their recovery of the ball was phenomenal.
They would be able to close down any threats on the half way line in an instant and turn it into an attack instantly.
Meaning opposition defenders would still be pulled out of position, giving the likes of Salah, Mane and Firmino more space.
Now with either Fabinho or Henderson slotting in not only are they missing their energy in midfield but also aggressive recoveries in defence.
Forcing them to dominate the ball without any clear conviction in their play.
Yet, that being said coming up against Man City could allow Liverpool to go back to old ways.
Not dominating the ball at Anfield could be a blessing in disguise as they can play to their strengths on the counter-attack.
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Which is exactly what we saw in their wins against West Ham and Spurs.
But make no mistake this is a must win game for Klopp and he may want to take notes.
Because Guardiola has mastered the balance between defence and attack by adapting City’s play.
While Klopp is still searching for it without his two defensive pillars.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
