With Emre Can handed a two-game suspension for accumulating ten yellow cards this season, I’ve looked at the potential replacements for the big German.
The loss of Emre is a bit of a blow as the player has performed well in recent weeks for the Reds. But his nature of play – aggressive, dominant etc. – is what has got him the ban and he is a player that Liverpool do not have a direct replacement for.
Lucas Leiva would be the obvious choice, as he thrives on the physical battle with other players and is more defensive minded.
Physically, he is the best choice but there are others who could come in and do a job for Liverpool in the next few games without Can.
Joe Allen’s form this season has been a surprise to some but others have always appreciated the way in which he plays and goes about his business.
The Welshman’s ball control and vision is highly impressive but not always mentioned, however, this season most have started to notice that Allen is not just a workhorse but actually a very talented footballer who can defend and attack with consistent results.
Alen saved Liverpool against Arsenal in the 3-3 draw and also scored the winning penalty to send the Reds to Wembley in the League Cup semi-final. He is finally starting to get the recognition he deserves and this suspension for Can provides a great opportunity for Allen to prove his worth.
Another option for Jurgen Klopp could be to change the formation and move Adam Lallana into the centre of midfield alongside James Milner with Jordan Henderson playing a deeper, defensive role. Lallana has proved that he is more than capable playing any position, but he is often better when playing centrally.
In this scenario, Jurgen could play Roberto Firmino in a wide midfield position and move Lallana into a midfield position with Milner and Henderson.
Firmino often played as a wider player at Hoffenheim and enjoyed good form whilst in that position. The Brazilian has often been used as a striker since January and has benefited massively, scoring seven goals and assisting four in the process.
