Matthew Upson told Sky Sports News (10/09/21 at 10:35 am) that ‘it wouldn’t be a surprise’ if Liverpool strengthens their midfield and replaced someone like Naby Keita.
The former Premier League centre-back shared that Keita ‘hasn’t hit the rhythm’ at Liverpool since his £48 million transfer in 2018 (BBC Sport).
Injuries have played a part in Keita’s decline, lack of game time and form, but that will still be frustrating for the supporters, himself, teammates and his manager.
Whether it happens during this summer’s transfer window, or later on down the line, Upson thinks the midfield is an area that could see a fresh face down the line.
“Losing Wijnaldum in the midfield is a big loss,” said Upson. “You feel that’s an area of the pitch you could see Liverpool strengthening.
“Naby Keita came into the club with high expectations. But it just hasn’t quite clicked for him, whether it be through injury or whatnot.
“He just hasn’t hit that rhythm of that high energy player that Jurgen Klopp loves. The press, being able to arrive late in the box, a little bit of creativity to open up as well.
“So, it wouldn’t surprise me if that’s an area of the pitch they were looking to strengthen and whether they do or not in this transfer window.”
Well, Liverpool did add a midfield option to their squad last summer in the midfield technician, Thiago.
But he is a different player to Keita, as Jurgen Klopp has had several players who have spent quite a lot of time in the treatment room.
Another includes Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is seemingly wanted back by Southampton this summer.
In the long run, for players like Keita and Oxlade-Chamberlain, it’s perhaps best for both the players and the club for them to move on.
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