Liverpool fans have had plenty of reason to be angry over recent weeks, but the failure to land Marc Guehi is what really tipped them over the edge this January.
The Reds had a deal for the Crystal Palace captain all-but wrapped up in September, but after deciding not to match Manchester City’s mid-season offer they saw him head to the Etihad Stadium instead.
While the numbers in regards to agent fees and wages are reportedly eye-watering, Liverpool‘s desperate need for another centre-back made the decision not to move for Guehi feel like an odd one.
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Olympique Marseille v Liverpool - UEFA Champions League
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For the time being, Arne Slot has only three senior centre-halves available, with that number reduced to two ahead of Wednesday’s trip to Marseille after Ibrahima Konate did not travel due to family reasons.
In his place came the rarely seen Joe Gomez, and although the 28-year-old may be something of an afterthought for some supporters, he showed exactly why Liverpool are right to bet on him during a brilliant showing at the Stade Velodrome.
Joe Gomez rolls back the years in Marseille
Liverpool may still surprise everybody and sign a new centre-back in what’s left of the January market. But with that feeling especially unlikely, Slot will have to make do with what he has.
Although it is clearly not ideal, Gomez’s Champions League performance was a strong reminder that he is perfectly capable of stepping in when required.
Marc Guehi pictured in action during Crystal Palace's Premier League match against Aston Villa at Selhurst Park.
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
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The Reds’ No. 2 did not put a foot wrong during a difficult game in the south of France, rolling back the years to partner Virgil van Dijk in the middle of Slot’s defence.
Strong in the tackle, excellent positionally and clever on the ball, Gomez strolled through the match to allay any fears that Konate’s absence could affect Liverpool.
The question over Gomez has always been fitness-related but if he can stay fit, the Reds’ longest-serving player is arguably an even better option that Guehi himself.
Who did it better?
Szoboszlai or Gerrard?
Dominik Szoboszlai scores with a free-kick during Liverpool's UEFA Champions League match against Marseille at the Stade Velodrome (Credit: Getty Images/Justin Setterfield).
Steven Gerrard scores for Liverpool during their UEFA Champions League match against Marseille at the Stade Velodrome (Getty Images/Clive Brunskill).
Photo Credit: Getty Images/Justin Setterfield/Clive Brusnkill
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Gomez can play more for Liverpool
If – as looks almost certain – Liverpool do not add to their defensive ranks this month, many fans would predict that the season could get even worse.
However, Gomez’s performance on Wednesday should have allayed those fears more than a little.
The former Charlton youngster always feels to be one step away from a debilitating injury, but he has been fit and available for a little while now without really being used by Slot.
Hopefully Wednesday’s display will give the Liverpool head coach the confidence to use Gomez a little more moving forward.
Between Van Dijk, Konate and Gomez, the Reds should have more than enough to get through to the end of the season and banish all thoughts of Guehi.
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