Liverpool cannot afford Gini Wijnaldum to be in ghost-like mode, following a noticeable dip of late.
The Dutchman has been a fantastic signing since arriving from Newcastle United back in 2016, being turned into an effective-but-understated midfielder for the Reds.
While others have made the headlines, whether it be Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah or Sadio Mane, Wijnaldum has ticked along and been a vital cog in the machine.
There have been standout moments, most notably the double against Barcelona last season, but more often than not, you only fully appreciate the 29-year-old if you watch him closely.
There are times when Wijnaldum can go into cruise control, however, finding himself guilty of keeping things too safe and almost going completely unnoticed in matches. He does nothing wrong, but also does little to contribute towards what Liverpool are doing.
The Netherlands star is experiencing one of those periods at the moment and it is hurting the Reds.
Barring the header against West Ham last week that really should have been saved, Wijnaldum hasn’t scored or assisted since the 5-2 win over Everton in early December. This may not be his primary job, but it still speaks volumes.
Against Watford on Saturday, he was as anonymous as he has been all season, although he was admittedly no worse than the majority of his teammates.
While the Dutchman can get away with these quiet spells at times, with others bailing him out, Liverpool’s midfield issues are highlighting the problem.
Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita are both out injured, James Milner is only now returning and Fabinho remains rusty after fitness issues of his own. The midfield isn’t functioning as well it can, but rather than stand up and take control, Wijnaldum seems too willing to take a back seat.
The constant speculation surrounding his future may not be helping matters, with the former PSV Eindhoven man not committing to a new deal at Liverpool yet.
Has he taken his eye off the ball, allowing his future to dominate his thoughts? Quite possibly.
In fairness, however, it may simply be that Wijnaldum is starting to run on empty, having already got through a huge workload this season, playing a vital role in Liverpool’s incredible season.
Whatever the problem is, Jurgen Klopp could badly do with his influential star returning to his earlier form, proving to be an undoubted key member of this team.
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