While watching Liverpool in action against Wolves, former Red Stephen Warnock came to a rather surprising conclusion about Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate.
Arne Slot chose to rotate somewhat for a second trip to Molineux in four days. One change he made was to bring in Gomez in place of Konate.
It’s the right call, especially with Galatasaray in the Champions League right around the corner.
But it didn’t raise concerns given how experienced Gomez is, and Warnock reckons it actually makes Liverpool better in possession.
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Stephen Warnock prefers Joe Gomez to Ibrahima Konate on the ball
Gomez is the longest-serving Red still at Anfield, and he has proven himself an invaluable utility player who can cover in defensive areas.
But aside from the need for rotation, there might be certain games where he is the better pick than his French teammate.
That’s what Warnock has written for BBC Sport. He explained: “Joe Gomez is more suited to being a centre-back. He has been asked many times to play at right-back.
Joe Gomez pictured with the ball at his feet during Liverpool's Premier League match against West Ham United at Anfield.
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“I think Liverpool are better in possession when he plays rather than Konate.”
Konate is still a Liverpool player for now, and will be the first choice until he decides to depart. But in games like the one against Wolves, where the main task is to break down a stubborn low block, he might not be the best pick.
You can’t fault Konate’s defending and staggering physicality, but his composure and distribution can be lacking.
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Before the start of the season, Gomez had one foot out the door.
A move never materialised, and the going theory all season has been that he will be heading for the exit.
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Virgil van Dijk applauds supporters after Liverpool's Premier League match against Sunderland at Anfield.
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It’s not a given, though. Still just 28, he has more to give. If he can accept the squad role, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be considered to stay past the end of the season.
Jeremy Jacquet’s return date is uncertain, as is Giovanni Leoni’s. If they aren’t going to be ready to go from matchday 1 next season, it might be wise to keep Gomez for another season.
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