Jurgen Klopp has told Stadium Astro that it’s impossible for Liverpool to replace Andy Robertson who has the ‘full-package’.
Robertson returned from injury to Liverpool’s bench yesterday as they beat Burnley 2-0 in the Premier League.
The Scotsman’s replacement – Konstantinos Tsimikas – provided an assist with a Robertson-esque cross that was headed home by Diogo Jota.
Whilst last season was tough for Tsimikas, he has faired well during these opening few games in Robertson’s absence.
After yesterday’s win, Klopp was asked about the duo, as he made one thing clear about Robertson.
“In the last few years, we often had the problem that it was quite tricky to replace Robbo,” said Klopp. “I would actually say it’s not possible because Robbo is a world-class player and an incredible player.
“It’s like the full package as a defender and as an attacker that you wish for in that position. And he’s a leader in the team.
“Konstantinos, like Robbo before, he needed some time to get used to all the different things we are asking left-backs for. And absolutely in time, he got it.
“So, Konstantinos is in a good moment and he played well. He set a goal up with a sensational cross. That’s no problem. It’s just great to have them both.”
Even though Tsimikas has faired well, as soon as Robertson is ready to start his engine, there’s no doubt he will take his place in Liverpool’s starting grid.
But at least Klopp knows that he now has a player that can certainly do the job if called upon.
And given that the games will start stacking up for the Reds, after the international break in September, then there is plenty of minutes that Tsimikas will be provided with to whip those crosses in again.
But once again, whilst a certain club in Manchester spends hundreds of millions on fullbacks, Liverpool have worked the market well to nab their players for next to nothing in comparison.
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