For Liverpool's Midfield, It's Just a Question of Depth

(Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)

There is no doubt from last season that Albert Riera made a superb impact on the left wing. Although the length of the season eventually got to him, in the beginning he was a breath of fresh air.

He was able to slot himself into one of the best midfields in the world almost effortlessly, playing a strong part in almost every area of play.

From the beginning Riera had an impact on the left side of midfield, spreading the field, taking on defenders, and then being willing to track back when needed.  But the best part in my opinion was when Riera did fall out of form, the squad was strong enough to have two other quality left midfielders waiting in the wings (no pun intended) to take his place.

Riera was a prime example of Benitez’s stance that the club does not need to buy star powered player in order for it to have a strong impact on his squad.

Personally I would be extremely exited to see a similar style transfer this season on the right side of midfield. Now don’t get me wrong I am a huge fan of the Dutchman Dirk Kuyt, but he was ultimately forced to play over 60 games last season. 

Something that is sure to fatigue a player regardless of his title “Mr. Duracell.”

It was evident towards the end of last season that despite his best efforts fatigue began to get the best of the Dutch winger. There were games were during the run of play he was almost nowhere to be seen, something that is extremely rare for a player who is characteristically seen running around the pitch like a headless chicken attacking anything and everything that moves.  

My point about bringing up these games is not to rag on Kuyt, because ultimately he had a good season. But instead to show that there were low points in his form, and even though he was playing poorly Liverpool couldn’t rest him because of a lack of depth on the right flank.

In discussing who would be a good buy for the club I’ve come across a few fans who seem to believe that we need a star powered player like that of Antonio Valencia, or Ricardo Quaresma to run our flanks. But I’d have to say that I think that would go against the compact midfield that Benitez has already created at Anfield.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?