Liverpool lost further ground in the title race after lumbering to a 1-1 draw against West Ham at the London Stadium.
Despite taking the lead through Sadio Mane despite James Milner crossing from an offside position, Liverpool were far from their best and couldn’t find a winner after Michail Antonio equalised far too easily for the hosts. The second successive draw will be a cause for concern for Jurgen Klopp with Manchester City breathing down their necks. The injury-stricken Reds will hope to return to winning ways against Bournemouth at the weekend.
Both their brilliance in attack and resilience in defence has dissipated during their recent games. Indeed, their injury problems at the back have done nothing to help their rearguard. Both Joel Matip, Dejan Lovren and Joe Gomez have faced spells on the sidelines this season. Gomez, in particular, could miss the rest of the season – yet another long-term injury for the youngster.
While his form this season has been excellent, the England international has gained a reputation for picking up injuries and Klopp must question whether he can be relied upon as Virgil van Dijk’s long-term centre-back partner.
If not, the German should make a move for Napoli defensive rock – Kalidou Koulibaly. Valued at £63m by Transfermarkt, the Senegal international has developed into one of the world’s best defenders since joining the Serie A side – his excellent talents were on show against the Reds in the Champions League. Combining pace, power and composure – Koulibaly would be a frightening prospect alongside the Dutchman in the Liverpool back four.
It could take another world-record fee to prise him from Naples but his arrival at Anfield would take their defence to a whole new level.
Liverpool fans, thoughts?
