Liverpool’s Midfield Marvel: A Delightful Dilemma

The Enviable Headache of Jurgen Klopp

There are less words in the edited version than the original I provided, no words were meant to be removed. With a bit of luck then Jurgen Klopp might have the headache we all want him too soon. In an era where the pace of the game has never been faster and the competition never fiercer, Liverpool fans find themselves amidst a conundrum that most would envy. As Jurgen Klopp looks ahead, the tantalising prospect of having all his midfield starters fit poses a delightful dilemma: who to leave out? This piece delves into the individual contributions of four key midfielders, whose performances have sparked debates and excitement among the Anfield faithful.

The Unquestionable Impact of Wataru Endo

Lamented initially for not being Moises Caicedo, Wataru Endo has since silenced critics, becoming a key cog in Liverpool’s midfield. Since the tail end of last year, Endo’s excellence has been undeniable, particularly in his latest outings. His role as the only natural number six makes him a difficult figure to omit from the starting lineup. His performance metrics against Forest are a testament to his importance: winning 3/4 duels, 34 touches, and completing 21/26 passes in just 30 minutes of play. Endo’s defensive prowess and ability to recover possession are pivotal to Liverpool’s structure. The only natural six who lets others be released to greater effect.

Alexis Mac Allister: A Midfield Maestro

Arguably the signing of the season across the premier league, Alexis Mac Allister’s impact has been immediate and profound. With three assists and a goal in his last four appearances, Mac Allister’s influence while playing in a more advanced role is undeniable. His stats from the current season, including 2 goals and 4 assists in the Premier League, demonstrate his versatility and knack for being involved in key plays. Mac Allister’s seamless integration into Liverpool’s midfield makes him a guaranteed starter for the moment. Who else could have played that pass to Nunez in the last minute from the middle? If he’s got he starts in there. The biggest issue is potentially not having him restricted in the six.

Dominik Szoboszlai: The Dynamic Dynamo

Dominik Szoboszlai hit the ground running, quickly becoming a fan favorite and a contender for player of the year. Despite a slight dip in form, an high number of minutes and battling injuries, Szoboszlai’s contribution remains unmatched, leading in goals and assists among Liverpool’s midfield. With 5 goals and 4 assists across all competitions, Szoboszlai’s ability to create and score has been integral to Liverpool’s attacking dynamism. Maybe the one with unbridled pace who can do a bit of everything. There’s a reason he cost €70 million and it’s hard to see him being left out despite the claims of others.

Curtis Jones: The Pressing Powerhouse

The one who seems to divide opinion more than any other. Curtis Jones, once deemed one of the first names on the team sheet, has seen fluctuating opinions about his role. Yet, his real contributions cannot be understated, particularly in Liverpool’s press and counter-pressing system. An Anfield index poll revealed nearly 60% of fans would leave him out, likely a result of recent bias rather than a reflection of his overall impact. With 5 goals and 3 assists across all competitions, Jones’s ability to turn defense into attack is crucial for Klopp’s tactical setup. The key man in the press and counter press, it seems strange to even consider him as a bench option.

The Challenge of Cohesion

As Liverpool continues its campaign, Klopp will hopefully face the enviable task of blending individual talents into a cohesive unit. Each player brings a unique set of skills and attributes, from Endo’s defensive mettle, Mac Allister’s creative spark, Szoboszlai’s goal threat, to Jones’s pressing energy. The challenge lies not in finding quality but in optimising it, ensuring the midfield engine runs smoothly, irrespective of who makes the cut. This selection headache is the opposite of the one the missus can have and something we’re searching for. Maybe it might never happen but if you can get all four fit soon enough, the picture looks very different.