Liverpool trio Xherdan Shaqiri, Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi aren’t good enough as squad players, according to Arsenal legend Ian Wright.
The Reds were dumped out of the FA Cup by Manchester United on Sunday, following a 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford.
Shaqiri and Origi were both brought on in the second half to try and save the game, but neither had an impact. Meanwhile, Minamino wasn’t even used.
Speaking on BBC One before the game [via HITC], Wright claimed the Liverpool backups simply aren’t good enough options for the Reds:
You start looking at Shaqiri, Minamino and Origi. I don’t think they are an upgrade at all on what they need, especially if those three guys ain’t doing well. Then you look at Lovren.
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I don’t fully agree with Wright when it comes to his criticism of the trio, with some more culpable than others.
Shaqiri is a top-quality option when he is fit, as highlighted by an outstanding assist for Diogo Jota against West Ham earlier in the season, although injuries are admittedly an issue.
Minamino is being strangely underused by Jurgen Klopp, but his eye-catching performance for RB Salzburg at Anfield last season showed what a talented player he is.
Origi is not good enough, however, and has to be moved on at the end of the season.
The Belgian has offered almost nothing since the 2019 Champions League final, scoring just seven times, in all competitions.
