Liverpool have been crying out for more quality in the final third, and a move for Marseille’s pint-sized attacking midfielder Mathieu Valbuena could be on the cards after he was linked with a move. With various injury concerns and a paper-thin squad to contend with, here are 3 reasons why Liverpool should try and sign the Frenchman.
1. Ability and Personality
In an interview with the official Liverpool website recently, manager Brendan Rodgers outlined the qualities that he desires in any potential signing:
“I think my history as a coach shows I like players who are gifted technically and have courage when it comes to being in possession of a football. That is a key quality for me; can you be brave on the pitch, not in terms of 50/50 tackles, but having the ball and looking to play in areas others wouldn’t? I would say you can’t divorce the two – ability and personality. It all comes as part of the package. A player’s character is a crucial factor I look into before committing to signing them. They also need to show a willingness to learn, regardless of age and experience; that’s very important to me.”
If we go by Rodger’s description, Valbuena fits the description to a T. He has fantastic ability on the ball, has the eye for a pass and has the mentality to slug it out even when things may not be going in his favor. 35 goals and 55 assists in 305 appearances for Marseille suggest that he has the ability to hold his own against the best.