'I do have doubts': Carragher responds to suggestions he 'hates' one Liverpool player after strong criticism
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Arne Slot has some decision to make in the Liverpool defence ahead of Sunday’s game against Arsenal.
The Reds have struggled at the back throughout their opening two matches of the season, twice throwing away two-goal leads.
Things will have to improve against an Arsenal side who have looked as efficient as ever during the early runnings.
One of the biggest culprits in Liverpool’s sloppy defensive showings has been Ibrahima Konate, who had a torrid night against Newcastle United on Monday.
Konate was poor against Bournemouth on opening night as well, leading to question marks over his long-term place in the Liverpool XI.
The Frenchman’s struggles have led to heavy criticism from former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, who has now defended himself against claims that he ‘hates’ Konate.
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Carragher is never shy to air his views on any player in the Premier League, Liverpool or otherwise.
The Scouser’s forthright opinions often land him in trouble with fellow Reds, and after putting the spotlight on Konate recently, one fan on social media accused Carragher of hating the 26-year-old.
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“I don’t hate him, he’s a very good PL CB playing alongside the best CB the league has ever seen,” the Liverpool legend responded.
“That makes him & the others who have played alongside VVD look 20% better.”
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“When I judge top CB’s I think, could they lead & organise a back four?
I also don’t believe that if Guehi signs he automatically takes Konate’s place.”
Given his performance of late, there are serious question marks over whether Slot should start Konate against Arsenal.
But the truth of the matter is that the Liverpool head coach does not have a great deal of other choice.
Joe Gomez would be the most natural replacement, but having sat out of Monday’s game at Newcastle, the wisdom of throwing him in for such a big game is questionable.
Giovanni Leoni is also getting closer to a Liverpool debut, but it should not come against last year’s runners-up.
If Marc Guehi does end up joining, things may be different moving forward.