Liverpool defenders face criticism amid early season struggles

Liverpool FC is facing significant defensive scrutiny following two consecutive 2-2 draws against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. The club's full-back positions have emerged as a primary concern for analysts and coaching staff.

Norway manager Ståle Solbakken described defenders Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong as “a walking nightmare defensively,” noting that Frimpong is positionally weak and more suited to attacking roles. Solbakken also expressed doubts regarding the pace of Virgil van Dijk and suggested the squad lacked necessary depth in midfield.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher criticized Kerkez’s decision-making, comparing him to striker Darwin Nunez by stating he plays at “100mph” without sufficient tactical understanding. The criticism follows a summer transfer window in which the club failed to secure direct replacements for Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson.