“Nervy” Liverpool player is “starting to worry” pundit after latest poor performance
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After Liverpool’s recent 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace, Sky Sports pundit Martin Keown has expressed growing concern about the performances of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate. Keown described Konate’s defensive display as a "nightmare," highlighting two critical errors in the first half that nearly cost Liverpool dearly. Konate’s mistakes allowed Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta to create dangerous chances, with Alisson Becker stepping up to make several key saves to keep the Reds competitive.
Chris Sutton, another Sky Sports analyst, also criticized Konate’s performance as “slack,” pointing out his failure to effectively contain Mateta. Sutton remarked on Konate’s inability to maintain control when pressured, noting a moment where Mateta pinched the ball off him to go one-on-one with Alisson, though the goalkeeper managed to prevent a goal. Sutton’s assessment reflects concerns about Liverpool’s defensive mentality, describing the team as looking “lax” defensively this season.
These critiques come amid a broader discussion on Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities following the loss, which ended their previously unbeaten start to the 2025 season. Manager Arne Slot expressed frustration with his team’s defensive lapses, particularly in the closing moments of the game where Palace scored a 98th-minute winner. Despite Alisson’s strong performance, Liverpool’s overall defensive frailties, exemplified by Konate’s errors, have become a point of worry for pundits and fans alike.
In summary, Sky Sports commentators are increasingly worried about Ibrahima Konate’s form following his recent poor display at Selhurst Park, citing sloppy defensive mistakes that jeopardized Liverpool’s results and highlighted larger issues in the team’s backline organization and concentration.
PP