Jurgen Klopp has told Goal that Andy Robertson, Joe Gomez and Trent Alexander-Arnold are now in charge of Liverpool’s defence.
Virgil van Dijk was always considered to be Liverpool’s leader at the back, but his absence means that others have to step up.
Rhys Williams, who is only 19, was included in the Reds’ starting line-up on Tuesday evening, as they kept a clean-sheet and beat Atalanta 5-0 in Champions League action.
And Klopp says that he is now entrusting his other defenders to take on more vocal roles for the team.
“We had to change because Virg is not there anymore, so we share the responsibility,” he said.
“We put it on 10 shoulders instead of one, and it was incredibly good what the last line did, supported by all the others.
“Everybody has to step up now; Robbo [Andy Robertson], Trent [Alexander-Arnold] and Joe [Gomez], they are in charge. If Joel [Matip] plays then it is different but if it is one of the young players, then they have to demand and command that line.”
Alexander-Arnold and Gomez may still be young, but they actually have great experience, having been regulars at Liverpool for some time.
Stepping into a leadership role, therefore, shouldn’t be beyond them – despite their age.
Liverpool’s new look defence is likely to face its toughest test yet at the weekend.
The Reds are set to take on Manchester City in Premier League action, and Pep Guardiola’s side will almost certainly be looking to exploit the void that Van Dijk’s absence has left at the back for Klopp’s men.
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