4 Things we want to see after the international break
The first international break of the season always comes so early. Both fans and players alike are just beginning to settle into the weekly routine of Premier League football only to have it stopped for two weeks.
However, this extended time does lend itself for teams to work on the finer nuances of their squads and it allows players to heal up and further integrate into their setups.
For the players not on international duty with the National Team, this is a time to work on your game. I put together a few things that I want to see from Liverpool when play resumes.
A defined plan for the midfield – Liverpool’s first match back will come against Wolves on 9/16. In the meantime, Jurgen Klopp needs to bring a firm idea for how he wants his four new midfielders to be utilized going forward.
Is Ryan Gravenberch going to be the starting defensive midfielder with Alexis Mac Allister to his left and Dominik Szoboszlai on his right?
Will Wataru Endo be a weekly substitute to be brought on for late stability? These are all things that the boss needs to iron out over the international break.
Diaz-Nunez-Salah should be given a run of games together – With the Reds shutting down Al-Ittihad’s overtures for Mohamed Salah we can now turn our focus onto how many more goals he will contribute the rest of the season.
He’s on pace for quite a lot if you’re wondering. But I digress, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez need to be given the chance to work together up top with the Egyptian.
Nunez has been a match winner already and put on another strong display in his first start against Aston Villa. However, they can only continue to build on the early building blocks up front with more minutes together.
Once they get back from international duty Klopp should put them together as often as possible.
Alexander-Arnold needs to get healthy and continue to his good form – Trent put on his most impactful display in the win over Villa and Liverpool will want to see him maintain his game changing form.
His ability to unlock a defense from anywhere on the field is a tool that very few players bring to the fold.
A more defined midfield will give him even more freedom to express himself on the ball which can only mean good things for the attack. Alexander-Arnold needs to get over his hamstring injury first and foremost.
A healthy return for all players on international duty – This is the biggest fear for all manager’s during an international break. Losing one of your star players playing in a friendly or Qualifier against the likes of San Marino is a nightmare scenario.
If all the Reds on duty this break get back comfortably it’ll be a proper job done.