Danny Murphy thinks that Nathaniel Phillips is going to get dropped by Liverpool soon, after his ‘nervy’ display against Newcastle United last night, as per his comments to Stadium Astro.
Phillips was drafted in to play in central defence for Liverpool, following Joel Matip’s injury.
The 23-year-old helped the Reds pick up a clean-sheet in a 0-0 draw with Newcastle United.
However, Murphy saw signs to worry about in Phillips’s display, and he thinks Jurgen Klopp may well take him out the side sooner rather than later.
“I think he struggled a bit,” Murphy said. “He looked nervy at times. He got the booking in the second half and was out of position a couple of times.
“I think in the forthcoming games we’ll see a change there, I’d be surprised if he keeps his place.
“I know he gives an aerial presence but depending who you’re playing against I don’t think you can only be in the team for that, you need a bit more. He was a bit in fear of Wilson, you could sense it.”
Phillips was targeted at times by Newcastle, and Callum Wilson’s pace did trouble him.
However, Liverpool’s results have remained fairly positive with Phillips in the team, and he is yet to make any really drastic errors.
The problem for Klopp is that if he wants to take Phillips out of his side, his options are extremely limited.
Jordan Henderson could play in defence, but he isn’t comfortable in the position, while Rhys Williams is also inexperienced.
Liverpool are next in action against Southampton on Monday, when it will be interesting to see if Phillips keeps his place.
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