As the season progresses, it is becoming increasingly clear that Liverpool FC may need to prioritise signing a new right-back this summer.
With injuries piling up in that position, Liverpool’s depth on the right side of defence has become a growing concern.
Bradley’s Long-Term Injury
Young defender Conor Bradley has been one of Liverpool’s most exciting breakthrough players, showing energy, aggression and attacking quality whenever he has played.
However, with Bradley now expected to be out for a significant period, Liverpool suddenly find themselves short of natural options at right-back. Losing a player who had become such a reliable deputy has exposed how thin the squad can be in that area.
Frimpong’s Injury Concerns
Liverpool were hoping that Jeremie Frimpong could provide the consistency and attacking threat needed on the right side. On his day, Frimpong is one of the most dangerous attacking full-backs in Europe.
But this season he has struggled with recurring injury problems, preventing him from building consistent momentum. Relying on a player who has spent large parts of the campaign unavailable is a risk Liverpool may not be able to take going forward.
Gomez’s Ongoing Fitness Issues
Another option has been Joe Gomez, who has filled in at right-back at various points in his Liverpool career.
Unfortunately, Gomez has also battled frequent injuries throughout the years, making it difficult for him to provide dependable cover across a full season. While his versatility is valuable, Liverpool cannot rely on him alone to solve the right-back problem.
Playing Midfielders Out of Position Isn’t the Answer
When injuries strike, teams often improvise. But asking midfielders to fill in at right-back is rarely a long-term solution.
Full-back is a specialised position that requires defensive awareness, pace, stamina and positional discipline. While midfielders may be able to do a job temporarily, it is not something Liverpool should rely on if they want to compete at the highest level.
A Key Position That Needs Strengthening
For a team that relies heavily on attacking full-backs to create width and support the attack, having reliable options in those positions is essential.
If Liverpool want to maintain their tactical balance and avoid being stretched by injuries again next season, signing another natural right-back this summer could prove to be a crucial piece of business.
With Bradley sidelined, Frimpong struggling for fitness and Gomez often unavailable, strengthening the right side of defence may need to become one of Liverpool’s top priorities in the transfer window.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
The Kopite View 
Leave a comment