The amount of column inches written about Liverpool’s midfield in recent times could probably wallpaper the Taj Mahal a thousand times over.
Arguably least outstanding area of the Reds’ squad during the golden era of success enjoyed under Jurgen Klopp over the last five years or so, much of the summer 2022 close-season was taken up with debate over how - and even if - it could or should be strengthened, with the German coach initially adamant he was satisfied with his options before changing tack as the transfer window drew to a close, leading to the deadline-day loan signing of the so-far lesser-spotted Brazilian, Arthur Melo.
Succession planning has largely been a major strength and carried out effectively at Anfield of late but refreshing Liverpool’s midfield was never going to be as easy as some seem to think given the unique demands Klopp requires from those in the middle of the park and the exalted level his team have been performing at on a regular basis. And it has been made more difficult by the contentious departure the summer before last of a man whose versatility and tactical nous papered over many of the gaps within that area of the squad and who has so far proved impossible to adequately replace.
