Carragher calls for Liverpool to sign new left-back as Robertson nears squad role | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Left-Back Dilemma: Time to Evolve, Not Sentimentalise

Changing Needs in a Changing Squad

Liverpool’s journey under Jürgen Klopp, and now into the era of Arne Slot, has been defined by evolution. Yet, even amidst the club’s transition, few positions have sparked as much discussion as left-back. Jamie Carragher, speaking on The Overlap, offered a characteristically direct assessment: “We need a left-back to play. Yeah, and Robertson needs to become, I would say, the sort of the squad player at left-back.”

There it is — blunt and unvarnished. While many supporters might recoil at the idea of Andy Robertson being eased aside, the reality is not as harsh as it sounds. At 30, the Scotland captain remains a symbol of relentless energy and commitment. But football rarely waits for sentiment. With Robertson’s physical peak arguably behind him and Kostas Tsimikas struggling to overtake the Scot, the debate isn’t about loyalty — it’s about planning.

Tsimikas on the Brink

When Ian Wright asked Carragher what would happen to Tsimikas, the response was short and telling: “Yeah,” came the reply to whether Liverpool should part ways with the Greek international.

Jurgen Klopp once described Tsimikas as “super important,” and rightly so — he provided able cover during crucial phases of title chases and European runs. Yet, with Klopp’s departure, his relevance may fade. Arne Slot’s system demands high levels of technical ability, positional intelligence, and adaptability — and perhaps a level of consistency Tsimikas hasn’t quite mastered.

Photo: IMAGO

A likeable and hard-working character, he has been popular in the dressing room and among fans. But when it comes to shaping a squad for the future, emotional connections have little place. If Robertson is to remain, it will likely be in a more rotational role. Tsimikas, in contrast, could be the odd man out.

Robertson’s Role Needs Redefining

It may seem counter-intuitive to downgrade a player of Robertson’s calibre. But this is less about performance and more about preservation. He remains capable of delivering at the highest level, yet to maintain that edge across a demanding campaign is a big ask.

The logic isn’t unfamiliar. Pep Guardiola did it with Kyle Walker. Klopp himself rotated James Milner to lengthen his effectiveness. Squad roles don’t spell demotion; they signify adaptation.

For Robertson, being part of the next Liverpool chapter doesn’t necessarily mean starting every game. It means offering experience, guidance and intensity — especially when young talent needs a benchmark to aspire to.

Eyes on the Future: Who Comes Next?

With Tsimikas likely on the move, speculation has naturally turned to who might fill the void. Paul Joyce has identified Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez as a player of interest. The Hungarian has caught the eye with his tenacity, pace and positional discipline — traits that would align well with Liverpool’s evolving identity.

Whether it’s Kerkez or another target, the requirement is clear: a player capable of pushing Robertson and eventually superseding him. This isn’t about replacing icons overnight. It’s about transition with purpose.