Paul Merson has warned Jurgen Klopp that Liverpool trio Fabinho, Stefan Bajcetic and Harvey Elliott will be ‘swallowed up whole’ if they start against Manchester United on Sunday at Anfield.
The outspoken TV pundit was agreeing with Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling, with Merson adding how that is the ‘problem’ area for Liverpool.
It was also pointed out by Merson that, whilst the Reds have ‘the legs’ to move about in the middle of the park, he highlighted Manchester United’s experience, led by their no-nonsense midfield general, Casemiro.
In midweek, Liverpool recorded a 2-0 win over Wolves, with the above trio starting in the middle of the park.
That was much different to the three that started the goalless draw against Crystal Palace, with Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita and James Milner all getting the nod.
Will Klopp make sweeping changes to his midfield again? Will he push for a few of the young guns? Well, if he goes with what he went for last time, then Merson is worried, as he told Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports News (04/03/23 at 1:40 pm).
“I look at their midfield from midweek,” said Stelling. “Elliott, Bajcetic and Fabinho. Wouldn’t that midfield be risked swallowed whole by Manchester United?”
Merson responded: “Yeah, very much so. This is where the problem is, the midfield, in my opinion.
“I think before they used to, not dominate, but I don’t think they got the credit when they were successful. They were the ones who be in there and they would let Robertson and Alexander-Arnold bomb on. The front three would do their stuff.
“Them three would the unsung heroes. It’s not the case anymore. I don’t think their midfield three is good enough, at the moment. They are swapping and changing it. What it has got, it’s got legs. But legs against experience is going to be very difficult.”
MIDFIELD BATTLE
It wouldn’t be a surprise if the likes of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson start against Manchester United because that know-how is going to be needed.
This Manchester United team doesn’t just have the experience and quality, but they are all bang in form.
Now, not many expected Erik ten Hag’s men to win earlier on in the season at Old Trafford and many are questioning if the Reds can overcome their own issues and beat their old rivals.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
