“He Has Been Unlucky” – Journalist Reveals the Real Reason Behind This Liverpool Star’s Struggles | OneFootball

Unravelling Robertson’s Rough Patch: A Closer Look at Liverpool’s Left-Back Dilemma

In a recent discussion on Anfield Index, David Lynch and Dave Davis delved into the contentious red card received by Andy Robertson during Liverpool’s matchup against Fulham. Lynch, who witnessed the incident firsthand, believed the call to be just, stating, “I was sat in the ground and didn’t really think twice about it and it looked like the right decision.”

This pivotal moment arguably tilted the game, leaving fans and pundits alike to ponder what could have been had the call gone otherwise. Lynch added, “It’s all about whether Harry Wilson can get on the end of it, but he’s never going to reach the ball,” highlighting the improbability of Fulham capitalizing on the play had the foul not been called.

Robertson’s Declining Form: A Tactical Analysis

The crux of the matter, however, extends beyond a single game. Lynch touched on a broader issue: Robertson’s form. “We’ve got a version of Robertson that can’t start every game, and if he does, then you really start to see cracks in his performances.” This observation points to a significant shift for the Scottish defender, once celebrated for his consistency and vigor. His fluctuating performances suggest a need for strategic rotation, underscored by Lynch’s remark, “His best performances this season have come after being rested in the game before.”

The necessity for an alternative is clear, with Lynch advocating for Kostas Tsimikas’s swift return to provide much-needed depth and rest for Robertson. This strategy could help recalibrate Robertson’s season, offering him the respite required to return to his best form.

Controversial Officiating: A Persistent Concern

The debate surrounding officiating standards in the Premier League surfaces yet again with Lynch’s critique of the penalties awarded in the same match. Describing one as “very, very soft” and stating that another was “not in the box,” he encapsulates a frustration common among teams at the receiving end of dubious decisions. Such incidents not only influence the outcome of a single match but can also dampen a team’s morale and rhythm throughout the season.

The Bigger Picture: Liverpool’s Tactical Shift Under Slot

With Arne Slot at the helm, replacing Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool’s manager, the team’s tactical approach continues to evolve. The issues faced by Robertson might also reflect broader changes in team dynamics and strategy under Slot’s guidance. Adapting to a new managerial philosophy can be challenging for players, particularly those accustomed to a different style of leadership and play under a long-standing coach like Klopp.

Photo: IMAGO

In conclusion, while the immediate focus might be on Robertson’s red card and its implications, the broader narrative encompasses Liverpool’s adaptability under new management, the need for squad depth, and the perennial debate over the quality of officiating. As the season progresses, how Slot manages these challenges will be crucial in shaping the team’s fortunes and possibly, the future trajectory of Robertson’s career in this transitionary phase.

Lynch and Davis have certainly given fans and analysts plenty to consider as they watch how Liverpool navigates these turbulent waters. The coming matches will not only test Robertson’s resilience and adaptability but also Slot’s ability to fine-tune his squad to the demanding rhythms of Premier League football.