The midfield woes of Liverpool continue. After a host of injuries, Naby Kieta was the latest absentee as the Reds bowed down to their arch-rivals Manchester United on Tuesday.
Both teams had a dismal start to their campaigns. Manchester United started with two losses on the trot, by an aggregate score of 6-1. Liverpool meanwhile had two disappointing draws to Fulham and Crystal Palace.
Both teams faced each other to revive their fortunes, as well as gain bragging rights in the heated rivalry. Liverpool were tipped as favourites, but it was the Mancunian club that prevailed.
Jurgen Klopp excluded Fabinho from the lineup after his poor run of form. The Henderson and Milner partnership did raise eyebrows, and the concerns of the fans were vindicated after some time. On the other hand, Erik Ten Hag made the bold decision to exclude Cristiano Ronaldo and Harry Maguire. His choice paid dividends and the Red Devils won 2-1.
Jadon Sancho maintained his composure to score a brilliant goal, before Marcus Rashford used his pace to beat the Liverpool offside trap to double their advantage. Mohammed Salah pulled one back for the visitors, but it was merely a consolation.
New Midfielder For Liverpool?
Now before the transfer window closes, Liverpool must act to bolster the midfield. They are planning to recruit Algerian international Ismael Bennacer. He has reportedly been a target for the Reds for a while, according to Italian outlet La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
Liverpool and Manchester City admire Bennacer. If Milan take too long to extend his contract, which is set to expire in 2024, Liverpool are reportedly considering the possibility of signing him.
However, after injuries to Thiago and Naby Kieta, along with the slowing down of Henderson, Milner and Fabinho, they might be forced to make a move sooner than expected.
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