Liverpool were poor in their 2-2 draw away to Shrewsbury Town on Sunday, blowing a 2-0 lead in the FA Cup fourth round.
There was a sloppiness to the Reds’ play, not helped by Jurgen Klopp making 11 changes to his team.
Someone who really struggled at New Meadow was Fabinho, who made his first start since picking up an ankle injury in November.
The Brazilian was loose on the ball and slow off it, with his display playing a part in Liverpool’s struggles.
Whereas he was almost perfect before his injury, Fabinho could do little right on Sunday.
The 26-year-old deserves some slack, however, considering he was clearly short of match practice.
The majority of players take time to get back up to speed, particularly when they are playing in a system as demanding as Klopp’s.
Although not everyone was letting Fabinho off lightly, with these Liverpool supporters took to Twitter to stick up for him.
https://twitter.com/SamueILFC/status/1221491534723526656?s=20
Fabinho predictably rusty so far. These minutes will do him good after that long absence
— James Pearce (@JamesPearceLFC) January 26, 2020
Fabinho’s first start in two months, bound to be rusty and off the pace regardless of the opponent. This game is all about match fitness and getting him back up to speed. No Fabinho slander please. #LFC pic.twitter.com/Kt5YBPpmcU
— TheKop.com (@TheKop_com) January 26, 2020
If you don't believe match fitness is a thing, watch Fabinho here. Absolutely miles off the pace.
— Henry Jackson (@HenryJackson87) January 26, 2020
https://twitter.com/stehoare/status/1221508439035215872?s=20
Can't blame the kids today – Matip, Lovren, Fabinho, Origi all Champions League regulars who have been way off it. Maybe too many players coming back from injury at once?
— Empire of the Kop (@empireofthekop) January 26, 2020
Comments.
Loading comments…