Why Milos Kerkez looks set to continue starting for Liverpool despite scathing Gary Neville assessment - opinion

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Liverpool’s defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge was another performance where Milos Kerkez struggled.The 21-year-old has not been at his best since joining the Reds and was involved in their 2-1 defeat to Enzo Maresca’s Blues, where the defence struggled with the pace of the home side.There was nothing that could be done about the first goal from Moises Caicedo, which was expertly struck into the top corner, but after Kerkez was replaced at left back by Andy Robertson, it caused issues for the Estevao Willian goal.The Hungarian’s individual performance was just one of many that were highlighted as issues throughout the game, and has led to even more scrutiny over the backline.Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty ImagesGary Neville criticised the young full-back in post-match comments following the defeat, but despite the scathing words, Kerkez has to start.Milos Kerkez has to start because of Andy Robertson’s fitnessDuring The Gary Neville Podcast, the former Manchester United star gave his assessment of how the Hungary international has started his career in a red shirt.He said: “The boy Kerkez, to be honest with you, at this point in time, he looks like a youth team player. I know he’s a good player, but he looks like he’s playing for the youth team, or the Under-21s.

He looks so naive; he looks like a baby out there. He’s losing 50-50s with Neto.“But I have to say from the first ten minutes of that game against Bournemouth on the first game of the season, he’s struggled.”However, while his criticisms are fair, the issue now facing the Reds is Robertson’s potential injury and overall fitness.READ MORE: Jamie Redknapp names who Arne Slot should be picking at right-back every week for LiverpoolThe Athletic journalist James Pearce posted a video of the Scotsman in discomfort following the game and having to be helped off the field as he limped.He was already tired by the end of the game against Chelsea, and proved why exactly Kerkez is needed as the starting player in that position.Obtaining a new left-back in the summer transfer window was a must, given that Robertson is 31 and has struggled to match his previous best seasons in recent years.The former Bournemouth player seemed like a no-brainer for £40 million, given his Premier League experience, pace, strength, and pressing ability.READ MORE: Liverpool player spotted limping off with potential injury after last-minute Chelsea defeatHowever, it has not happened for him because it is a completely different setup, and at the moment, it may have been a step too far for the young player.While it may be easy to say he needs to be dropped or replaced, he cannot be, given the options in that position are slim.The Kostas Tsimikas loan deal may be a bad idea in hindsightIt is not to say that he will not become a great player, but there is clearly more development needed or more catering towards his preferred style.Liverpool used to have the extra option of Kostas Tsimikas; however, it was decided he would join AS Roma on loan, where he is now finding some good success with the Italian club.It is easy to say in hindsight, and given the fact that he was not likely to be given much game time, but maybe it was an oversight by the Reds to let their third-choice left-back go this summer.The ‘Greek Scouser’ may not be a difference maker, but he would have given the squad a solid third option.