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Arsene Wenger dissects Liverpool's midfield problem amid slump in form

Mirror logo Mirror 15/02/2021 22:41:19 Thomas Bristow

Arsene Wenger believes Liverpool 's midfielders being forced into defence has caused major problems at the club.

Injuries to Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez has caused chaos at the back with Jordan Henderson and Fabinho filling in as centre-backs.

Their absence in midfield has subsequently stunted Liverpool's attack.

Wenger believes Henderson missing in the middle is a contributing factor.

"There are many reasons, one of the main reasons is that they lost Van Dijk," Wenger said when asked why Klopp's side have dropped points this season on  beIN SPORTS.

a football player on a field: Jordan Henderson has been forced to play at centre-back for Liverpool this season. © Liverpool FC via Getty ImagesJordan Henderson has been forced to play at centre-back for Liverpool this season.

"What was their strength was winning the ball high with Henderson in midfield, and Milner, by moving Henderson back they have lost that."

Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah have all struggled to replicate the form they showed over the past two seasons.


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Wenger went on to explain that the change in positions has created a loss of pace in the side and that it is one of the technical reasons the attack is suffering.

"I'm trying to find some logical explanation. Liverpool were very efficient because time given to their opponent was short," he added.

Arsene Wenger wearing a suit and tie: Arsene Wenger picks apart Liverpool's problems. © beIN SportsArsene Wenger picks apart Liverpool's problems.

"By changing their structure they gave a bit more time to their opponent.

"They won the ball high up and could quickly feed the strikers, that was the main reason for their success, and of course a good defensive stability. They have lost a bit of that."

When asked if Liverpool can still defend their Premier League title, Wenger replied: "No.

?"I don't think so, because Man City are 10 points ahead, they have one game in hand, they look to be on a run.

a man wearing a uniform: Pressure has mounted on Jurgen Klopp of late. © PAPressure has mounted on Jurgen Klopp of late.

"I don't think with 14 games to go you can catch 13 points to the top team.

"I've never seen 13 points (made up). If it was eight or nine, yes.

"If Man City win their game in hand 13 points is impossible."

mardi 16 février 2021 00:41:19 Categories: Mirror

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