While Xabi Alonso’s name is front and centre in the Liverpool manager conversation, Tim Sherwood believes there is another proven option worth considering.
Arne Slot is still the man in charge at Anfield, but the pressure is mounting as results continue to go against him.
The week kicked off with reports from Alonso’s side making it clear that he has his sights set on joining Liverpool. But even with that growing buzz, there are other names being mentioned.
Tim Sherwood has suggested an alternative closer to home, one he thinks could be a better fit for the club right now.
Tim Sherwood backs Oliver Glasner for Liverpool job, says move should happen soon
Alonso has the obvious appeal. He is a club legend and still holds a strong place in the hearts of the supporters.
But Oliver Glasner’s work at Crystal Palace speaks for itself. Leading the Eagles to their first-ever major trophy with an FA Cup win over Manchester City was no small feat.
And it was not a one-off. Glasner followed that up by beating Liverpool in the Community Shield at the start of this season.
Glasner looks like he is on his way out at Palace, and Sherwood believes Liverpool would do well to move quickly.
Sherwood told Sky Sports: “I was talking about it earlier with Glasner. In my opinion, if Palace had someone to bring in and he wasn’t in work, I’d bring him in now, let him have a look at the squad before you go into the summer market.”
The back-three set-up would demand more depth at centre-back, which means additional signings would be needed. But beyond that, it could actually suit some of their existing players.
It is a view shared by many Liverpool fans. If a change is coming, why not make it sooner rather than later? Giving a new manager time to settle could help get the club back into title contention next season.
Glasner’s preferred system does not match up perfectly with Liverpool’s current squad. Bringing him in would likely mean significant changes over the summer window.
The back three system would especially require more depth at centre-back and wing-back roles. But players like Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong would fit well into wide positions under that setup.
A switch could also open the door for a front two of Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak, giving Isak some much-needed support up top while allowing for an extra body behind them in midfield.
While Alonso remains the likely top choice, Sherwood’s suggestion should not be dismissed. Glasner is a coach with a proven winning record who could immediately resolve Liverpool’s defensive problems.
- READ MORE: Liverpool daily transfer rumour roundup: Latest on Xabi Alonso, Andy Robertson, and Lewis Koumas
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