Liverpool have officially lost their best player for the second time in two summers, with Raheem Sterling now Manchester City’s ‘No.7’. However, despite this, there is seemingly still real reason for optimism at Anfield, as the powers that be at the Merseyside club have moved quickly this summer to bolster Brendan Rodgers’ squad.
Deals for a host of promising players have already been agreed, with a number of exciting new faces moving to the top-four hopefuls.
Although the likes of Nathaniel Clyne and James Milner will boost areas of real need, Roberto Firmino’s acquisition from Hoffenheim is the move that has captured the most attention. The Brazil international is viewed as one of the most promising in his country’s transitional national side and on first inspection he looks like an ideal replacement for Sterling due to his creativity, goal threat and range of passing.
However, despite Firmino having the potential and ability to fire the Reds back into the Champions League qualification slots, another concluded deal this summer is arguably more important.
The contract extension of Martin Skrtel ends months of speculation over the Slovakian enforcer’s future, with the Reds regaining the services of one of their most influential players.
In attack the Merseyside club have plenty of options once everyone is fit and available, but in defence the team rely on a small number of key players.
Skrtel may not have the technical skills or ability on the ball of some of Rodgers’ other central defensive options, but his never-say-die attitude and physical presence make him one of the most imposing players in his position in the Premier League.
Potentially undervalued and overlooked at times due to his non-glamorous demeanour, the Eastern European powerhouse is an imposing opponent. Skrtel’s aerial ability in both boxes, ability to win tackles and willingness to put his body on the line continues to be a facet of the team’s defence.
The Reds have at times looked like a soft touch in defence in the Rodgers era, but the former Zenit St Petersburg man’s presence ensures organisation and a no-nonsense approach.
One of Rodgers’ main tasks ahead of next term will be to find the ideal partner, or partners, to play alongside Skrtel in order to transform Liverpool into a tight unite defensively.
Although Jordan Henderson has been named as the club’s new captain, had it been Skrtel handed the accolade few could have argued due to his leadership and influence – the Slovakian has been at Anfield since 2008 and as such is one of the seasoned campaigners in Rodgers’ squad.
With Steven Gerrard leaving this summer, Liverpool will need a number of their long-serving stalwarts, including Skrtel, to stand up and be counted.
Liverpool look short of leaders after Gerrard’s exit and the Slovakian enforcer is certainly one man able to inspire the rest of the team.
Had Skrtel’s contract situation not been sorted out, it would have really weakened Liverpool and as such his renewal is the Anfield side’s most important completed deal so far this summer.