---
title: "The Rise of Sakho"
canonical: "https://readliverpoolfc.com/articles/the-rise-of-sakho/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Fred Haas"
section: "Articles"
published: "2015-02-16T14:40:24Z"
modified: "2015-02-16T14:40:24Z"
---

# The Rise of Sakho

The injury to Lucas has put a spotlight on the Brazilian’s key contributions to the revived Reds that have now only lost twice in 22 matches (all competitions). However, another key figure in the current run of form is the return of Mamadou Sakho as a starter.

Since joining Liverpool in September of 2013, the French international has had an up-and-down tenure. Sakho has struggled with fitness and the lingering suspicion by supporters that manager Brendan Rodgers did not rate him.

Considered a marquee signing when he arrived, Sakho moved from Paris Saint Germain for £18 million. Yet another left-sided center half, Dejan Lovren, arrived this summer from Southampton for £20 million. All public indications were apparent that Rodgers wanted Lovren, to the point that Liverpool arguably overpaid to secure his transfer, while Sakho’s entrance on deadline day was met with Rodgers dismissive of the former PSG captain’s fee as a factor in playing for the side.

Then there was the incident where the Frenchman left Anfield before kick-off of the first Merseyside derby this season. Despite being arguably the best centre half in the squad, Sakho was not picked for the match and was justifiably unhappy. While he apologised and admits it was not his best of moments, a thigh injury days later only complicated the situation. He has, of course, since apologised.

Cynics questioned the veracity of the injury, especially after the manager’s censure. Whatever the case, Sakho was left out of the side for months, gaining more attention for his good works spent off the field than on it.

Now, 12 appearances later, he has proven to be an essential part of a much improved defence. Since returning as a starter after the defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford, Sakho has once again become arguably the strongest performing defender.

During this brilliant run, Sakho has started every match as the Reds have won 6 and drawn 3 in the league, conceding 7 goals and claiming five clean sheets. According to Squawka league stats, he is winning 59% of his duels defensively and registers 89% passing accuracy, while creating 3 key chances. Moreover, nearly 70% of Sakho’s passes are forward rather than backwards. Yet, the eye test clearly reveals that he always looks to play.

Sakho has been able to play his way into his strongest form as a Red, in spite of the knock from some that he looks awkward on the ball. While not necessarily appearing the most graceful, his combination of power and skill has been clearly effective.

Even during yesterday’s trip to Selhurst Park for the FA Cup clash against Crystal Palace, he started slow but eventually combined with Moreno to seal off the defensive left side once more. He even blazed forward a few times, starting and supporting the attack from more forward positions. As the Liverpool Echo’s Kristian Walsh reported, the traveling fans have made their choice in voice, chanting his name. His role in the resurgence cannot be underestimated.

Considering he is just 25, young for a central defender, and already an accomplished international, he may yet emerge as the first defender on the team sheet.