Liverpool’s full-backs Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold have been two major reasons for the club’s success this season.
Both Andrew Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold have double-digit assists each this season, with Alexander-Arnold setting a new record for defenders in the Premier League. Only Christian Eriksen, Ryan Fraser and Eden Hazard have more.
What’s even more impressive is that never before have two defenders from the same side assisted on 10 or more occasions in the Premier League, with the last defender to achieve more than 10 assists being Everton’s very own Leighton Baines, who assisted on 11 occasions back in the 2010/11 campaign.
Even former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has been both shocked and impressed, especially with Andy Robertson since his arrival from Hull back in 2017.
He said: “What he has done at Liverpool has shocked me in terms of his defensive work. We talk about Jurgen Klopp improving players. His work with Robertson and some of the other players – Mane, Salah and Firmino in particular – these three are a complete(ly) different level now, and it’s the same for Robertson. It’s a brilliant performance from Jurgen Klopp”.
Alexander-Arnold has made 29 appearances this campaign, found the back of the net once and has been well-disciplined, only receiving three yellows.
Premier League betting suggests Liverpool will be second favourites to win the title next season, but their performances this season have certainly bridged the gap between them and Manchester City.
It certainly looks like these two sides will be battling it out once more next season, with Chelsea and Spurs likely to finish in behind, with both Manchester United and Arsenal battling it out to break back into the top four.
“THE KOP” (CC BY 2.0) by cchana
How has their defending been?
It’s easy to forget that both of these flying forward defenders’ main job is to keep the ball out of their net. They’ve more than played their part in Liverpool’s incredible season, conceding just 22 goals all season.
The addition of Virgil van Dijk with his commanding presence and superb leadership qualities has allowed the young full-backs a license to push forward and contribute in front of goal.
Both full-backs have been outstanding this season. On occasion, Alexander-Arnold has been caught out for his defensive positioning, but it’s easy to forget he is still only twenty years of age. The more he plays, especially under Jurgen Klopp, the more mature and professional his performances will become.
Robertson has shown that his £10 million price tag was an absolute steal. His desire, pace and assists have arguably made him the best left-back in the Premier League.
It is clear that Liverpool have two fine full-backs for years to come, and it is frightening to think that this is their first full season playing together.
“Klopp” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by cchana
