Paul Merson reacts after hearing rumours Liverpool may not make any new signings today

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Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has reacted to the rumours that Liverpool may not make any new signings today.

Speaking live on Sky Sports, the former Arsenal hero suggested he understands why the Reds may not panic and choose not to dip into the transfer market before the 11pm deadline tonight.

“I can understand the Liverpool one. I don’t think you have to panic, they have got to reset again,” Merson said.

“You have to remember Liverpool played every single football match last season. It takes its toll.

“This season they have just fallen off a bit but that’s because they have played every game.

“They are playing under severe pressure these players, week in week out.

“Liverpool will be back, there’s no question about that.”

Merson says Liverpool don’t need to panic

Although you can understand where he’s coming from, we disagree with the notion that Liverpool shouldn’t be panicking about their lack of squad depth.

As illustrated by various issues over the first half of the season, the Reds have looked extremely poor, and there have been a lack of alternatives Jurgen Klopp could turn to when the side really needed it.

In the middle of the park, the Merseyside outfit’s established players – the likes of Jordan Henderson, James Milner and Fabinho – have dropped off tremendously this term.

Instead, Klopp has resorted to starting 18-year-old Stefan Bajcetic in the midfield. Although he is an unbelievable talent, the youngster shouldn’t have to start week-in week-out.

Furthermore, Liverpool have just Joe Gomez and Joel Matip fit at centre-back. Nat Phillips was poised to leave the club today; however, it now appears the Reds have gone back on their word with that one.

With their two best central defenders injured (Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate), surely there should be a bit of urgency in supporting the position.

There’s much more which could be unpacked here, but the fact is that Liverpool do need to strengthen their squad. It is completely negligent to think otherwise.