Can the two full-backs provide the depth and relief for Liverpool’s established pair?
Liverpool youngsters Ki-Jana Hoever and Yasser Larouci could be the two players in Jurgen Klopp’s squad who benefit most from the club’s slow summer transfer window.
The Reds failed to make any big money signings between seasons, with goalkeeper Adrian the only first-team ready addition to Klopp’s outfit.
As reigning European champions it makes a bit of sense, despite nervousness from some Liverpool fans who don’t feel the club have the depth to meet the challenges ahead in multiple competitions this term.
Why sign players if they are not going to improve the options you currently have?
The most obvious need for reinforcements came on the flanks, where Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold have made the left-back and right-back positions their own.
Liverpool were never going to be looking for upgrades on those two. However, with a lack of specialised, natural back-up, the Reds could be an injury or two away from a bit of a crisis.
Players such as Joe Gomez and James Milner are available to fill in, but could the lack of additions instead be the perfect opportunity to try and develop two outstanding teenage prospects in Hoever and Larouci?
Hoever has already made his senior debut for the club, playing in the FA Cup last season at the age of just 16. Larouci is still waiting on that honour but at 18 has two seasons of U23s football under his belt.
Both were included in Klopp’s pre-season plans, with the duo starting together against Lyon in Switzerland.
Throwing either into pressure matches could obviously backfire; they are untested defending against Premier League attackers.
However, both have shown they have the kind of ability and attacking ambition on the ball that would see them fit in well in place of Robertson or Alexander-Arnold in matches of lesser importance, or matches in which the Reds are expected to dominate.
If Liverpool are going to shy away from spending big money then they must take risks in developing their own players.
It’ll be fascinating to see if Klopp turns to youth over the next few months.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
