Liverpool transfer plea clear after 'special' Giovanni Leoni's heartbreaking injury blow
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Liverpool's new centre-back Giovanni Leoni has suffered a serious knee injury – and fans in the Liverpool Echo comments section say that while he offered a great sample of his talents in his first start, the club must take the situation with the defence seriously in January.
The 18-year-old Italian impressed on his debut in the Carabao Cup win over Southampton, with a solid display on Tuesday that gave little indication that this was his first time turning out in red.
Leoni partnered with Joe Gomez, and Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate were given the opportunity to rest.
READ MORE:Giovanni Leoni supported by Alexander Isak and Liverpool teammates after injury statementREAD MORE:Liverpool must face cruel twist after Giovanni Leoni injury as transfer stance tested
The Reds are back down to three recognised centre-backs after Leoni landed awkwardly late into the game, and was stretchered off the pitch.
The young defender's injury could mean months of recovery, which would be a cruel twist on a bright start at Anfield.
Some fans say that the unfortunate event puts the focus squarely back on the club's centre-back department.
Reader Samsongforyou says: "I'm really curious to understand why the club feel that 4 CBs is sufficient for a team that wants to win the PL and CL.
It's mind-boggling."
Commenter Wudwudley writes: "Endo is never a CB and Gravenberch is too valuable in midfield.
I know Leoni was bought as a long term project but to lose him with such a bad injury is terrible."
BreadPitt writes: "Let's hope our three central defenders remain fit the entire season.
We have seen a season go down the drain before because we had no fit first choice central defenders left."
Others say that teenage Leoni was a great buy on current evidence.
It is a pity to lose such a player on his first outing."
Jomo57 writes: "What a blow to Giovanni, he was having a brilliant debut for the Reds.
You will never walk alone Giovanni, see ya soon."
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