As Liverpool lose to Atletico Madrid on penalties in the Audi Cup final the tournament highlights the squad’s strengths and shortcomings.
A much changed Liverpool side were held to a draw by Atletico Madrid before losing 5-4 in the penalty shoot out. Atletico had very little intention on winning the match but Liverpool, like many other teams in Europe, found trouble breaking them down.
Despite the loss it was a competent display; especially as many who began the match are not regular first team starters. The likes of Ben Woodburn, Dominic Solanke and Jon Flanagan were given opportunities to prove themselves. The former two linked up well on a number of occasions without quite getting on the score sheet.
Across the two games of the tournament we got see the strengths and weaknesses of our current squad. We have relatively few injuries at present; Nathaniel Clyne is out for a few weeks and Danny Ings is on the road back. We are waiting to hear about Sturridge’s injury.
Strengths & Shortcomings
The strengths we saw in abundance yesterday. The demolition of Bayern Munich was the first time our front four had played together and it was every bit as good as Reds have been dreaming. Clever movement, clinical finishing and gallons of pace. It was a joy to see. Even had rival fans commenting on it’s potential going to the Premier League season.
The other plus was how solid we looked in defense. Matip and Lovren are a solid partnership on their day and Trent Alexander-Arnold looks the business. Even Alberto Moreno chipped in with a MOTM level performance. Though it seems inevitable that the Spaniard will leave before the window is out.
Today saw the shortcomings. Overall it was a good display but the real worry comes with our defensive depth. James Milner still looks like a makeshift full back (because he is one). Ragner Klaven is okay as a fourth choice center back but the idea of him playing meaningful minutes next season is concerning. Jon Flanagan, who couldn’t get a game for Burnley last year, seems unable to step to the level Klopp requires.
We really do need another center back. Not someone who can supplement the team but someone who can dominate. The concerns with our full backs would not be so crucial if there were an imperious (Dutch) presence in the heart of defense.
The drop off from Salah, Coutinho & Firmino to Woodburn, Lallana & Solanke is also worth noticing. Nothing against those three Englishman – I’m as excited as anyone about them – but if we are to challenge for the title and do well in the Champions League we probably need another good addition.
The squad is better than it was but we still have work to do before August 31st if we want to turn some of our deepest hopes for the 2017/18 season into genuine expectations.