Former Premier League Star Looks Closer At Liverpool’s Recent Struggles

It has been a positive start at Liverpool for new head coach Andoni Iraola. The Reds head into the November international break sitting fourth in the Premier League table.

Sunday’s win over Crystal Palace was a much-needed response to the defeats to Arsenal and Fenerbahce.

However, there have been some concerns with Liverpool’s performances. Most notably, the fluidity in their mega-money attack and the inability to break down strong defensive sides.

Former Premier League star Michael Ball, speaking to Anfield Index courtesy of BetWright.com, shared his thoughts on Liverpool’s struggles in that department…

“It’s The Most Difficult Thing To Do”

When asked about Liverpool’s attacking performances and their ability to play against low-blocks, Ball said: “It’s the most difficult thing to do, breaking teams down, and clubs work on it time and time again.”

“Every team finds it hard. Mourinho made it his game, didn’t he? He knows that the easiest way to win football matches is having a good defence and then you can bounce on that,” Ball continued.

“With Liverpool, Klopp’s way of defending was just: go for it. They all went for it. Liverpool have seen a bit more of a controlled, managed way since Klopp, so they’re sort of stuck in a transition period.”

“Liverpool three or four years ago had Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane and they could counter-attack with three or four players and break the lines.”

“When teams sit in, it’s frustrating for the fans and frustrating for the players. You expect to be two or three-nil up in the first half, but it’s nil-nil or you might concede from a corner and the fans show that frustration. But it’s so difficult to do.”

“You’ve just got to believe in the players and your ability. Even when Klopp really struggled to win games, it was constant pressure – going again, going again. The opposition defenders will eventually switch off and that’s when you pounce.”

“It looks like Liverpool are stuck in a transition period. It’s just about being more composed and having more belief.”

“The manager needs to get that balance right, especially at Anfield.”