Luis Diaz vs. Anthony Gordon: A Tactical Analysis for Liverpool’s Future
In a recent episode of the Daily Red Podcast, Dave Hendrick delved deep into Liverpool’s ongoing transfer speculations, particularly focusing on the potential replacement involving Luis Diaz and Anthony Gordon. The podcast, part of the Anfield Index, sheds light on the performances, potentials, and tactical fit of both players within Liverpool’s system. This analysis will explore Hendrick’s insights and examine how Diaz and Gordon could shape Liverpool’s future.
The Anthony Gordon Saga
The transfer rumours surrounding Anthony Gordon have been making headlines, with reports suggesting that Newcastle journalists are amplifying the story. Hendrick noted, “Newcastle journalists briefing this and you would suggest that it might be a PR so that when he signs a new contract, it looks like they did a great job at convincing him to stay.” He further questioned the reliability of these reports, highlighting discrepancies in the information being circulated.
Gordon’s career stats were scrutinized, with Hendrick pointing out that Gordon has had “one good season, zero great seasons,” with “20 career goals and 19 career assists including a half season spent in the Championship.” The skepticism around his consistency and productivity raises questions about his readiness to step into a more demanding role at Liverpool.
Luis Diaz: A Player of Contrasts
Luis Diaz’s tenure at Liverpool has been a mix of highs and lows. Since his arrival, Diaz has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency. Hendrick remarked, “Since Diaz arrived at Liverpool, despite how frustrating he can be, he has been more productive than Anthony Gordon.” He emphasised that Diaz has scored “more goals for us than Anthony Gordon has in his entire career of 150 games.”
A key point of discussion was Diaz’s initial impact at Liverpool compared to his current form. “The Diaz we bought from Porto is not the player we see week in week out for Liverpool,” Hendrick observed. He elaborated on Diaz’s impressive track record at Porto, noting his “14 goals in the 2019-2020 season, 11 in the next, and 16 goals in the half-season before we signed him.”
Tactical Fit and Potential
The tactical fit of both players within Liverpool’s system was another critical aspect discussed. Hendrick suggested that Diaz might be better suited to a 4-2-3-1 formation under a manager like Arie Slot, who could maximize his potential. “Diaz makes sense in Arie Slot’s system, a 4-2-3-1 more than he made sense in Jurgen Klopp’s 4-3-3,” Hendrick stated. He explained that Diaz prefers to “hug the touchline, isolate on fullbacks,” contrasting with Klopp’s preference for narrower wingers.
On the other hand, Hendrick questioned the logic behind pursuing Gordon, especially given his limited experience and inconsistency at the top level. He noted, “Why would we make this move? Like he’s 23, he’s had one good season, zero great seasons.” The analysis implies that Gordon’s potential acquisition should be reconsidered unless he demonstrates significant improvement.
