Liverpool need Arsenal star to win the Premier League title, says Neville
Cameron Smith
- 9 Oct 2023 09:09 BST
- 3 min read
Gary Neville believes that Liverpool will be involved in the Premier League title race this season, but thinks that Jurgen Klopp’s side would definitely challenge Manchester City if Declan Rice was in their midfield.
The Reds underwent a midfield overhaul during the summer transfer window as Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all departed.
Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Wataru Endo arrived at Anfield as their replacements, but Neville still believes that Liverpool are missing one key midfield profile.
READ MORE: The BIG problem with Liverpool's midfield recruitment
Endo is the only natural defensive midfielder of that quartet, yet Klopp does not seem to fully trust the Japan international and Mac Allister has instead been deployed at the base of Liverpool’s midfield.
That role doesn’t suit the Argentine’s best qualities and Neville thinks the Reds’ failure to sign a proper defensive midfielder - and one that Klopp is willing to play in the Premier League - could cost them the title this year.
READ MORE: Liverpool dealt blow in pursuit of Mohamed Salah's replacement
What has Neville said?
After their 2-2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday, Neville told Sky Sports: “The midfield is attacking. Has it got the defensive stability of what we have seen here today when Rodri comes back in [for Manchester City] and then when you see Rice, Partey and Jorginho [for Arsenal]?
“Have they got that defensive stability, Liverpool? If you put Declan Rice in Liverpool’s holding midfield position or you put Rodri in there, then I would say Liverpool would definitely be on for the title.”
However, Neville still thinks that the Anfield side will be involved in the title conversation. “My question mark is whether or not they have enough solidity, defensive strength or power in midfield,” he said.
“I don’t think Liverpool would quite get there, but they are in the race, no doubt, because of the manager, because of the manager! He is outstanding. One of the best.”
