Liverpool have had a rollercoaster ride of a season. The Reds were good, then they were rubbish. They’ve suffered an unprecedented injury crisis. This summer is expected to be a big one in response to the side’s failings this term. Nat Phillips could raise Liverpool a significant chunk of money if he’s sold.
Centre back crisis
This summer we expect some movement in the centre of defence.
This is due to the ridiculous injury crisis the club has faced during this season.
The Reds sold Dejan Lovren last summer and elected not to sign a replacement for the Croatian.
Many saw the move as placing too much faith in the fitness of Joe Gomez and Joel Matip.
Concerns were proved valid within a month, the Merseyside Derby saw Virgil van Dijk ruled out for the season due to an atrocious tackle from Jordan Pickford.
A couple of weeks later Joe Gomez was given the same prognosis for a similar injury.
Joel Matip fought on until January when he too was ruled out until the next season.
Due to the crisis we saw a parade of stand ins take their turn in the centre of defence.
Nat Phillips surprise star
The injury crisis at the back has afforded a surprise season of appearances for Nat Phillips.
The centre back was expected to be sold over the summer with clubs in the Championship and League One reportedly interested.
No transfer materialised and the defender began the season with the reserves.
Since players started dropping like flies Phillips has established himself as an undroppable member of the defence.
The Bolton Baresi has made 11 starts and two sub appearances in the Premier League this term.
Across these games he’s earned himself an impressive 7.11 WhoScored rating.
Significant sum if sold
This surprise season for Nat Phillips will have multiplied his transfer value.
The 24-year-old is unlikely to have a similar role in the squad next season given the imminent return of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.
When you consider the returning defenders along with the expected arrival of Ibrahima Konate and possible permanent transfer of Ozan Kabak then it’s hard to see a spot in the side for Phillips.
As a result it’d make more sense for everyone if the defender was sold in the summer.
The season we’ve seen from Phillips, one which has showcased his monstrous heading ability and astute reading of the game, will have made selling him a more enticing prospect.
The defender being moved on could raise a significant amount of money which can go on to funding the various signings the Reds need to make this summer.
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