Three Changes That Liverpool Have To Make After The International Break
Having collected just 12 points from the first 7 games of the Premier League, Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool have made an inconsistent start to the season but the squad at the manager’s disposal can easily turn things around. They have some of the finest attackers in the league in their armoury but Liverpool have been unable to click as a unit this season.
Their defensive and midfield frailties are issues they need to solve but having failed to address it in the summer transfer window, they have little to work with. The international break came at the right time for the Reds, giving the manager plenty of time to work on his squad. And here are three tactical tweaks he needs to make to get Liverpool playing at their best:
Shift To 4-2-3-1
Though Klopp has not shifted from his 4-3-3 since his arrival at Anfield, it might be the right time for him to change his ways. The manager had decent success with a 4-2-3-1 system during his time in Germany and he should surely try the same in England. Liverpool have the personnel to play the new system to perfection. Klopp has options galore in most positions if he changes his system and this might be the secret to getting Liverpool’s season back on track.
Firmino As A Secondary Striker
Though it causes a few selection headaches, Liverpool and Klopp should use their Brazilian ace in his more natural role, as a support striker. Firmino is an excellent asset in Klopp’s pressing system and the manager is worried that it might not work to its best if the former Hoffenheim man is dropped. However, him leading the attack is surely costing the club at least a goal every game and it is time to change it.
He can be just as effective, if not more, in a role just behind the main striker. Mohamed Salah has already played as a false-9 and is a decent option for the role. Using Firmino and Salah up front will allow Klopp to use Philippe Coutinho and Sadio Mane in their more natural positions, thus improving the productivity of the whole side.
Stick To A Settled Back Line
Probably the biggest problem for Liverpool has been the lack of a back-4 that can play in every game. With Nathaniel Clyne injured, the right-back position has been a roulette while Alberto Moreno has won his place back, giving Andrew Robertson some competition. Dejan Lovren’s frailties show him as an inconsistent part of the first team but the lack of options is forcing Klopp to use him. Matip seems to be the only consistent figure at the back and things need to change here if Liverpool are to get their season back on track.