Liverpool`s second Premier League defeat of the season, a 3-2 loss to Fulham at Craven Cottage, might seem insignificant in the current campaign`s context. However, it revealed some worrying trends that could impact their title challenge next season. Despite taking an early lead, Liverpool conceded three first-half goals and struggled to break down Fulham`s defense in the second half.
For almost a decade, Liverpool`s attacking prowess has been largely fueled by their dynamic full-backs. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson have been instrumental in stretching defenses and creating opportunities in the final third, becoming one of the Premier League`s most effective defensive pairings in an unconventional way. Their ability to progress the ball and contribute offensively has been crucial to Liverpool`s success.
With Alexander-Arnold possibly moving to Real Madrid and currently injured, the current full-back partnership is facing uncertainty. The Fulham game highlighted potential issues not just on the right side but also on the left. While Robertson`s attacking contributions remain strong, his defensive performance has been questioned recently. This was evident in Fulham`s opening goal, where a misplaced pass across his own box allowed Alex Iwobi to score.
Liverpool`s defense as a whole was unconvincing in Fulham`s first goal. Robertson was slow to react to Andreas Pereira`s cross, but the central defense was equally at fault. Ibrahima Konate seemed preoccupied with Curtis Jones, losing track of the ball and failing to intercept the cross, which eventually led to Ryan Sessegnon`s goal.
Virgil van Dijk, usually a reliable presence, also made a rare error for Fulham`s third goal. He failed to properly deal with a high ball, allowing Rodrigo Muniz to control it and score past Coimhin Kelleher.
In the second half, Liverpool showed some response, with Conor Bradley`s introduction at right-back providing an immediate spark. His run set up Luis Diaz for a goal that reduced the deficit. Harvey Elliott almost equalized with a shot that hit the bar. However, Fulham defended resolutely, with Calvin Bassey standing out, securing a significant victory in their pursuit of European qualification.
This defeat might only delay Liverpool`s inevitable league position this season, but it raises questions for the future under Arne Slot. While they still need a few points to secure their goals, the game exposed defensive vulnerabilities. If Bradley is seen as Alexander-Arnold`s successor, then a more defensively solid left-back than Robertson might be necessary. Van Dijk, despite being out of contract soon, remains a top center-back, but has shown occasional lapses. The question remains whether Konate is ready to consistently perform at a high level as Van Dijk potentially declines.
These are important questions for Liverpool to consider as they plan for the next season. Addressing these issues, particularly in defense, will be crucial if they want to maintain their position as title contenders in the future.
Benedict Kingsley