The brilliance of Andrew Robertson

Liverpool left-back and Scotland international Andy Robertson has evolved into a splendid defender.

He has become an essential player for the Reds, basically he allows them to function at their highest capacity.

Robertson’s offensive presence is even more of an asset than his defensive contributions, and he’s become a major contributer to the side since joining in the summer of 2017.

Jurgen Klopp then identified Robertson as a target with immense potential, and Liverpool made the most of Hull City’s relegation to the Championship by purchasing him for £10 million and then locked him up long-term.

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A fullback is a vital portion of the modern style of play, in which they storm up the flanks to provide support to the attackers. Names such as Marcelo, Jordi Alba, Alex Sandro, Marcos Alonso, Lucas Hernandez, Thomas Meunier, and Joshua Kimmich are examples of prominent players on the best clubs in the world.

Robertson should be added to this list, as Liverpool have soared up the ranks largely due to his play.

In the Champions League against Paris Saint Germain the left-back showed off his range of crossing by delivering the perfect ball for Daniel Sturridge to head past goalkeeper Alphonse Areola. He is able to place the ball right over the PSG defender where Sturridge can successfully finish the chance.

Another of the multitude of examples of Robertson’s exceptional crosses, and it makes him such a danger going forward.

The Scot also commits strongly to the system currently in place of pressing high and intensely and has been reprehensible for charging down players in possession, forcing an inevitable turnover.

These examples provide a solid backing to the claim that Robertson is one of the best fullbacks in the sport, as he provides a well balanced approach. He is both a force moving the ball offensively and pursuing the ball by pressing.

To supplement what can been seen by watching Robertson’s play, one can also examine his statistics. He has tallied two assists and four big changes created, along with 22 tackles and a tackle success rate of 68% this season in the Premier League.

Last season he was credited five assists, one goal and 21 tackles with a success rate of 55%. This shows a marked improvement in his performance from last season to the current one, as he is on pace to surpass these previous marks.

However, in the Champions League Robertson has provided two assists in only three games this season. This is in part due to Liverpool’s higher intensity of play in this tournament, but also the Scot’s ability when he is allowed to be more aggressive.

Overall, the impact of his signing has been enormous, as his addition has transformed the Liverpool attack and allowed them to create different opportunities in different ways.

The 24 year old is just now blossoming into a brilliant footballer and has the potential to become truly great. Already being bestowed the honor of Scottish national team captain, he can become a truly great player for both club and country.