Following Liverpool’s 4-3 win against Tottenham Hotspur, Gary Neville criticized Ibrahima Konate’s performance and expressed concern about Liverpool’s defense.
Liverpool secured a hard-fought 4-3 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in their Premier League clash at Anfield. While the Reds’ attacking prowess was evident in the first fifteen minutes, with goals from Curtis Jones, Luis Diaz, and Mohamed Salah, their defense showed some vulnerabilities.
Former Manchester United and England defender, Gary Neville, analyzed Liverpool’s defensive performance and expressed his concerns about the French center-back, Ibrahima Konate.
Neville stated , “Konate on that right-hand side had a nightmare today 40 minutes in.” He also pointed out that Konate appeared uncomfortable covering Trent Alexander-Arnold in his new role, which was a significant factor in Tottenham’s chances throughout the game.
Neville believes that Liverpool cannot continue to overlook their defensive frailties and must address them to compete at the highest level. He commented, “You have to connect the two [Konate’s form and Alexander-Arnold playing centrally], you can’t keep papering over the cracks. You have to deal with it properly. Every chance Tottenham had it felt like it came down that right-hand side.”
The Sky Sports pundit also acknowledged the challenge that Liverpool’s defense faces with Robertson pushing forward from the left-back position. He stated, “Robertson’s flying forwards as well, and asking Konate to play right-back and right-centre-back, that’s too big an ask. You need to be on top of your game, and Liverpool aren’t at that in this moment in time.”
Neville’s analysis underscores Liverpool’s need to improve their defense to compete for major honors. While the Reds’ attack continues to shine, their vulnerabilities at the back have been exposed on several occasions this season.