Jurgen Klopp has rhetorically asked if Liverpool ‘need more players’. The answer is probably no – as long as youth is ready to step up.
“If you sit back for a second and have a look at the squad, do we need more players?” Klopp said in an interview with Sky Sports.
“People will say, yes, we need a substitute for Sadio Mane, for Mohamed Salah, whatever.
“But those players are here.”
But are they? Liverpool do look a little light in their forward line, especially after Harry Wilson’s exit. We thought he looked like a smart addition at the start of the window – and at the end of it.
Wilson’s exit means Rhian Brewster is the only real addition to last season, assuming Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will play in midfield.
That’s not to say that they can’t add plenty to the squad but both are risks. Brewster has never played senior football, while Oxlade-Chamberlain may not be the same after his injury. In fact, you can make the same point about Brewster.
Xherdan Shaqiri’s minutes really dried up over the second half of last season, while Divock Origi is more of an impact player.
Covering for a tired front three
It would be bad luck on Liverpool’s part but what if there are a couple of lengthy injuries? What if some of the backup options aren’t able to step up? It’s two years since the front three have had a summer off – there’s a chance they break down.
And if that happens, Liveprool may curse their lack of signings, what with doubts over the backup. Unless there are youth products ready to vill any void, that is.
Harvey Elliot could, potentially, play some games. Bobby Duncan, too, might just be ready to have his chance.
If Klopp has faith in the ‘backup behind the backup’ then yes, Liverpool do have the players they need. But it could be a big if.
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