Liverpool fans may see some new names at right-back in the coming weeks, with Jurgen Klopp adamant that he cannot only rely solely on Trent Alexander-Arnold to fill the position.
Joe Gomez had been used at right-back this season when Trent needed a rest, but the 21-year-old picked up a nasty injury against Burnley midweek and will be out for six weeks – meaning he’ll miss at least ten matches.
Potential replacement Nathaniel Clyne is also out right now and not available for tomorrow’s clash with Bournemouth.
Klopp was asked about his options at right-back when Trent sits out, hinting that both James Milner, Liverpool’s most versatile player, and Fabinho, Brazil’s starting right-back, could do the job.
“It was really important [that Gomez could cover Trent]. Trent is still a young boy and you cannot push him through 20 games in a row. You have to be responsible,” he said.
“But don’t worry, I have a plan!”
When pushed as to what that plan could be, Klopp nodded when Milner and Fabinho were mentioned, while suggesting there were even more members of his squad who could fill in too…
Youngster Rafa Camacho was on the bench v Burnley and has played at fullback so could also be an option.
We’d have complete faith in Milner at right-back, however, and would go as far to say it’s probably his best position considering his work-rate, crossing ability and defensive nous.
Fabinho is more than capable in the role, but we’d like to see him anchoring our midfield, as he did with aplomb in the Merseyside Derby on Sunday.
