Liverpool

Liverpool signing this 24-assist German star would fill a key position – Klopp must do this

Philipp Max of Augsburg is seen during the Bundesliga match between Sport-Club Freiburg and FC Augsburg at Schwarzwald-Stadion on February 23, 2019. (Getty Images)

Why Liverpool need to reignite their interests in Philipp Max

Back in July, Liverpool were interested in signing FC Augsburg left-back Philipp Max, according to Sport (h/t Daily Metro).

However, the deal never materialised. The German’s consistent performances over a period of four years had attracted the Reds, who were linked with a move back in the summer.

FREIBURG IM BREISGAU, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 23: Philipp Max of Augsburg is seen during the Bundesliga match between Sport-Club Freiburg and FC Augsburg at Schwarzwald-Stadion on February 23, 2019, in Freiburg Breisgau, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Scheuber/Bongarts/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Liverpool have continued their terrific form from last year, as they remain unbeaten on top of the Premier League table. The Reds have won 11 of the 12 games so far this season.

After winning the Champions League last year, many had expected manager Jurgen Klopp to spend big during the summer.

However, Liverpool had a rather quiet time in the market and did not make any big-money signings.

Alberto Moreno left Liverpool last summer. (Getty Images)

Though there wasn’t any major arrival, Liverpool did offload a lot of high-profile names in the summer. Danny Ings, Simon Mignolet, Daniel Sturridge and Alberto Moreno were some big ones to go.

Spaniard Moreno’s departure has, however, left the club with a lone left-back in Andrew Robertson. Needless to say, the Scotsman has been excellent for the Reds, since arriving in 2017.

He is currently in the peak of his form and has been sensational this season, with a goal and 5 assists to his name. However, a top club like Liverpool cannot bank on Robertson alone. They need a back-up for him if they wish to stay on top forever.

Andrew Robertson. (Getty Images)

Moreover, a new signing would offer Klopp more options in defence and in case any injury happens to the current lot. Robertson has been tirelessly running along the flanks for the Reds for some time now, and the immense workload may soon get the better of him.

So it is quite essential that Reds target another left-back soon and Max seems to be a right fit for that role. A Bayern academy product, Max has cemented a spot for himself since moving to Augsburg in 2015.

A regular with the team, he has appeared in over 100 matches for the German outfit, and has scored 8 goals and provided 24 assists. Despite Augsburg finishing just one spot above the relegation zone last year, Max’s potential was still clearly on display.

Max playing for FC Augsburg. (Getty Images)

He scored four goals and assisted as many, thereby proving his worth for an underperforming side.

Predominantly a left-back, Max can also play upfront on the flanks and tease the opposition defences with his dangerous crosses. Blessed with pace and power at the same time, the German could be a tireless worker which Klopp very well expects from his full-backs.

With 1.7 tackles, 1.4 interceptions and 2.7 clearances per match, Max is also a defensively well-equipped player. (Source: Whoscored).

Max (left) engages in a tussle. (Getty Images)

Verdict

First and foremost, a club of Liverpool’s stature needs at least one backup player for a position. With the number of skills under his disposal, Max’s abilities would come handy at the Merseyside club.

Also, with no other option left at full-back other than Robertson, Klopp should make a move for the German sooner than later.

Siddharth Suresh

Hello folks, I am an avid football follower who likes to read, report and play the world's most beautiful game. My other hobbies include writing poetry, traveling and exploring new cultures. Follow me on Facebook