Liverpool have a decision to make when it comes to providing cover for Milos Kerkez at left-back, and I don’t believe Kostas Tsimikas is the answer.
If Andoni Iraola wants to rotate Kerkez, particularly with the demands of competing across multiple competitions, then surely it is time to give one of the younger players an opportunity rather than continuing to rely on Tsimikas.
For me, Tsimikas has had enough opportunities to demonstrate that he can be a reliable alternative, but I don’t think he is good enough to be Liverpool’s long-term solution in that position.
There is a difference between having someone available to fill a shirt and having a player who can genuinely maintain the required standard.
Why Not Give Chambers a Chance?
Luke Chambers is one option Liverpool should be considering.
If Iraola is prepared to trust young players in other areas of the pitch, why not show the same faith at left-back?
There is always an element of risk when introducing youngsters, but players cannot develop into first-team options if they are never given meaningful opportunities.
Liverpool need to start looking at their academy as a genuine source of squad depth rather than simply somewhere to turn when injuries leave them with no other choice.
Chambers, or another promising youngster, could be given opportunities in selected matches, particularly when Kerkez needs a rest.
That doesn’t mean throwing a young player into the deep end against the strongest opposition. It means introducing them gradually and allowing them to prove whether they are capable of making the step up.
Kerkez Needs Proper Competition
Kerkez should remain Liverpool’s first-choice left-back, but he cannot be expected to play every minute of every competition.
Iraola needs to manage his workload, and that means having confidence in whoever comes in when rotation is required.
Personally, I’d rather see Liverpool give a youngster an opportunity and find out what they have than continue relying on a player I don’t believe is good enough.
The Kopite View: Liverpool have to be brave with their youngsters. If Tsimikas isn’t delivering the required standard, why not give Chambers or another academy prospect a chance? Kerkez needs competition and protection from the fixture schedule, and this could be an opportunity to discover another young player capable of making an impact at Anfield.
Sometimes the answer to a squad-depth problem could already be within the club.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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