Liverpool might have to be inventive at right-back against Ajax on Tuesday. The Reds could be without their first-choice options, after all.
Just what should Liverpool do at right-back against Ajax? It’s a tough one, certainly.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has missed the last three Liverpool games, while James Milner went off injured against Brighton. The former being the best in the world, of course, while the latter has been brilliant in reserve.
As we see it, Jurgen Klopp has some decent options. Here are three we think he could go with on Tuesday.
Neco Williams
Neco Williams is the most obvious. He’s a natural right-back, after all, and played there against both Atalanta and Brighton.
But while he’s the natural option, Williams hasn’t played well recently. He made mistakes against both opponents and gave away a penalty at the AMEX.
He’ll start if Klopp trusts him but the boss may take him out of the firing line.
Fabinho
Definitely a gamble. Fabinho can play right-back – and started his career in Europe there – but Liverpool may want him in defence.
Injuries at the back thrusted Fabinho into being a first-choice centre-half. But if Klopp trusts Joel Matip – who didn’t face Brighton – along with Nat Phillips or Rhys Williams, the Brazilian could be a very interesting choice.
He knows the position very well and would keep the flank strong defensively.
Curtis Jones
Curtis Jones is essentially the opposite option to Fabinho – but still very much an option. Tellingly, Klopp brought him on at right-back after Milner went off against Brighton.
But he’s certainly not a natural. Jones likely wouldn’t keep things solid but his ability with the ball could make him the option.
Jones would play a part in a very attacking Liverpool side, which may be the way to go. The Reds need a win to wrap the group up and Klopp may want to play for it.
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