As fans try to work out what’s wrong with Liverpool right now, @LFCGeorgia wonders if we are missing the ‘Scouse factor’ from the squad?
Another day, another frustrating game for Liverpool FC. The Reds’ latest dilemma has come from the 2-0 away loss against Leicester City in the Carabao Cup. The wasteful result means Jurgen Klopp’s side are out of the competition and the Foxes progress to the fourth round.
The majority of the fanbase are furious over another less than average performance. But despite the angst, a great deal of fans aren’t too bothered as it’s ‘only the EFL Cup’.
The Carabao Cup fiasco isn’t the first loss for Liverpool this season. Many poor performances have played themselves out before the Reds exited the EFL tournament.
What is causing all this mediocrity?
Fans and media had the problems pinpointed to one thing: shambolic defence. But that no longer seems to be the only issue within the squad.
The midfield is dazed and lethargic 90% of the time. Sadio Mané remains suspended and Philippe Coutinho has been given little time to make a comeback. The outrage over the clueless midfielders is only getting worse after every performance. Jordan Henderson and new boy Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have been majorly under fire.
Klopp’s tactic of ‘score more goals than the opposition’ has well and truly crumbled. Although as woeful as ever, the defenders cannot be blamed for lack of goals.
Missing the Scouse factor
One of the biggest problems that has gone undetected since Steven Gerrard left the club is the lack of Scouse blood running through the team.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has the passion and drive of a born and bred Liverpool fan and player. The academy riser is in love with his club, and has admitted he won’t be satisfied until he is captain.
His desire to progress and see his team win is everything LFC need to regain the Scouse spark. But at only 18-years-old, TAA alone isn’t enough to resurrect the passion. Jon Flanagan rarely sees any game time to make much of an impact, either.