The sting of defeat at Molineux still hung heavy in the air as Michael Owen delivered a stark assessment of Liverpool’s recent performance against Wolves. A late, deflected goal sealed a 2-1 loss, leaving the team vulnerable in the league standings.
Owen’s focus, however, wasn’t solely on the result, but on the visibly struggling Milos Kerkez. The former Liverpool striker didn’t mince words, describing the young left-back as appearing “a bag of nerves” on the pitch.
The £40 million signing from Bournemouth has yet to find his footing, and Owen believes a change is needed. He questioned Kerkez’s composure, noting a hesitancy to receive the ball and an overall anxious demeanor during play.
This isn’t an isolated concern. Owen pointed to a broader shift in the team’s dynamic, highlighting the significant void left by the departures of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson – a full-back pairing he considered among the Premier League’s finest.
The changes extend beyond defense. Owen observed a noticeable dip in form from key attackers like Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah, suggesting a collective weakening of the squad compared to last season.
While acknowledging the difficulty of replacing established stars, Owen questioned whether the transition is simply a matter of time or a sign of deeper issues within the team. He wondered if age might be impacting Salah’s performance and if Gakpo’s spark has dimmed.
Specifically addressing the left-back position, Owen surprisingly suggested that Andy Robertson might have been prematurely sidelined. He believes the veteran still has something to offer and could provide the stability currently lacking.
Kerkez, according to Owen, seems overwhelmed by the pressure and scrutiny that comes with playing for a club the size of Liverpool. While acknowledging his potential, he argued that the environment is currently too demanding for the young player.
Owen’s conclusion was direct: until Kerkez can demonstrate greater composure and confidence, reinstating Robertson would be the more sensible option. The weight of expectation, it seems, is proving a heavy burden for the newcomer.
The defeat to Wolves has sparked a critical conversation about Liverpool’s evolving squad and the challenges of replacing legendary players. Owen’s candid assessment offers a glimpse into the anxieties surrounding the team’s current trajectory.
