Daniel Sturridge has highlighted Liverpool's ongoing search for a dedicated defensive midfielder following their 2-2 draw away at Newcastle. This match was also the first official game for Andoni Iraola in charge of the Merseyside outfit.
Since the departure of Fabinho in 2023, the team has been without a specialist enforcer. In recent times, the roles have been filled by Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch.
“I personally believe the team needs a holding midfielder. We’ve been talking about the need for one at Liverpool for the last three years,” stated Sturridge.
“The inclusion of Gravenberch and his stable performances might have shifted this philosophy slightly, but if you really analyse the midfield, they are all naturally more attacking players.”
“Take someone like Brentford, for instance. They brought in Mamadou Sangare, and if you look at the stats, it’s just eye-catching.”
“Third for interceptions, third for tackles, third for regaining possession. For me, £39 million isn’t a huge amount for a club like Liverpool.”
“I’m not saying he’s the answer, but the statistics stand out. Liverpool currently lack a player of that profile.”
“I’m a huge fan of Trey Nyoni; I think he’s magnificent. But he plays more as a playmaking ‘six’ or a creative ‘eight’.”
“He isn't a destroyer; he won't instil fear in opponents like Sangare or N'Golo Kante have done over the years.”
