Kerkez Faces Scrutiny as Warnock Questions Liverpool Form
Liverpool’s Carabao Cup exit at the hands of Crystal Palace has reignited concerns about Milos Kerkez’s recent form, with former Reds defender Stephen Warnock urging Arne Slot to take the young Hungarian “out of the firing line”.
Kerkez, 21, was one of few players retained from the Premier League win over Brentford, as Slot rotated heavily for the midweek cup tie. The decision backfired, with Liverpool falling 2–0 and bowing out of the competition at the fourth-round stage.
Warnock Highlights Kerkez’s Struggles
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Warnock didn’t hold back in his assessment of the left-back’s recent displays. “I would be inclined to take Milos Kerkez out of the firing line,” he said. “Let him understand his role in the team. He is certainly struggling and he looks so uncomfortable.”
Warnock, who made over 60 appearances for Liverpool during his own playing career, believes Kerkez is still adjusting to the demands of both English football and Slot’s tactical system. His comments follow similar criticism from Paul Scholes, who recently suggested that the Hungarian “looks like a kid playing against men at times.”
Tactical Adjustments Offer Mixed Results
Against Palace, Kerkez operated as a left wing-back in a system that used three central defenders. While the change initially appeared to suit him, his influence faded as the game progressed.
According to the Liverpool Echo, the youngster was “steady enough” in the opening 45 minutes and linked up well with teenager Rio Ngumoha down the flank. However, as Palace grew into the match, Liverpool’s left side became increasingly exposed, and Kerkez’s defensive positioning was tested.
By full-time, the consensus was that while the Hungarian’s intent was clear, his execution lacked the assurance required at this level.
Adapting to Life Under Slot
Kerkez’s transition to Liverpool was never going to be seamless. Recruited from Bournemouth in the summer, he had impressed as a dynamic full-back, comfortable in both attack and defence. But under Slot’s high-intensity system – one that demands precision and positional intelligence – even established players have needed time to adapt.
For a 21-year-old in his debut season at Anfield, consistency will take time. Slot’s willingness to trust Kerkez, even amid criticism, reflects belief in his long-term potential. Yet with fixtures piling up and scrutiny intensifying, the manager may soon feel compelled to protect his young defender from further pressure.
Signs of Promise Despite Early Setbacks
Despite his uneven start, Kerkez has shown glimpses of quality that hint at why Liverpool were so keen to bring him in. His energy, progressive passing, and ability to stretch play remain valuable assets, especially in a system built on fluid movement.
Warnock’s assessment, though blunt, perhaps underscores the need for patience rather than panic. Many full-backs have taken time to settle at Anfield – and Kerkez’s raw attributes suggest he could follow that path.
For now, a short spell out of the starting line-up could benefit both player and team, allowing him to regroup and rediscover the confidence that made him one of Bournemouth’s standout performers last season.
