'I wish': Steve Nicol says Liverpool must be 'jealous' of Arsenal in one area in the Premier League title race
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Liverpool are expected to have the edge in the Premier League title race, but their rivals have an edge in one area.
It is clear that after Arne Slot’s first season in charge, the Reds have the quality, tactics and depth in certain areas to be champions once again following an incredible title win last season.
In a season where 85 points was enough to win the top-flight’s most coveted prize, even Jan Molby predicts the points tally they need will be similar, considering the opposition to their back-to-back title hopes this year.
Still, it is not easy to be consistent with the number of fixtures due to the Merseyside club competing in four competitions, including the first division, but with the new summer signings, Slot will hope he has found the right balance.
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But while they struck deals for striker Alexander Isak and future midfield star Florian Wirtz, they were unfortunate not to close a transfer for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi to add to their backline.
It was a deadline-day move that was not meant to be for the side, and they were unfortunate not to fully complete what was a summer rebuild.
This defensive area and failure to get the signature of Guehi was highlighted by pundits such as Jamie Carragher, who feel it is a big mistake that could have future implications on the squad’s title hopes.
Steve Nicol, a former Reds player, also has concerns about the defence, which their rivals, Arsenal, seem to have addressed during Mikel Arteta’s tenure.
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Speaking to ESPN FC, Nicol was asked if he had ever seen investment in defence like that of the Gunners.
He said: “No, I don’t think I have.
I wish Liverpool had as much depth at centre back as Arsenal does.
My goodness… I don’t mind admitting it.”
Liverpool do have some great options at centre back, but the issue is their depth and the players they have to fill those positions.
Joe Gomez always provides great shifts, and if he is fully fit, he would be in contention to start more games, but it is his injury record that makes him unreliable.
While Giovanni Leoni has been brought in as the future of the squad, he is yet to play and may take time to develop.
With Ibrahima Konate potentially tempted by an offer elsewhere, there is a need to bring in two new defenders, and one has to be Guehi.
The next transfer window, whether that be in January or the summer, should be focused on looking for proven talent to slot into their backline; otherwise, they may regret it sooner rather than later.