Liverpool have several players who can play on the right wing with the Reds said to view Federico Chiesa as cover for Mohamed Salah.
Last week, I wrote a piece on how Chiesa’s move to Liverpool gives Arne Slot something Jurgen Klopp never had: adequate competition for Salah.
Now, it’s not something needs as far as increasing his performance levels is concerned. Salah has over 200 goals and almost 100 assists for the Reds, but it does mean the Reds can rest him.
And as fit as Salah is, every player over the age of 30 needs more time to recover from the gruelling nature of playing in the Premier League and Champions League.
James Pearce on Chiesa’s role at Anfield
Federico Chiesa at Old Trafford. Credit: Imago Images
According to James Pearce, Chiesa is considered something of a bench player even if he might start for most teams in England.
Pearce, speaking on the Walk On podcast, confirms that Chiesa will compete with Salah for a starting role.
The Liverpool correspondent said: “Well, initially, certainly, as backup. Liverpool predominantly see him as offering high-quality cover for Salah on the right, which they haven’t had.
“Slot sees Harvey Elliott, who has played wide right at times, really as more of a number 10 option, if anybody wants to rest Szoboszlai.
“So I think that’s where we see it. But I think, as you said, the beauty of it is it’s low risk, and he’s not coming in with great pressure to replace some iconic name. It’s a really nice position to be in.
“And, you know, Slot wanted six senior options across the front line, and he’s now got that.”
Liverpool’s squad depth looks as good as it ever has
Arne Slot. Credit: Imago Images
Jurgen Klopp will forever be heralded as a saviour of Liverpool FC. He arrived at the club after some genuine heartbreak under Brendan Rodgers and restored a huge football club to its glory days.
And more than that, he ensured that his departure wasn’t a nail in the coffin but rather a brilliantly new beginning and that may be his greatest achievement as Liverpool manager.
Chiesa is very much a luxury signing in that he wasn’t totally needed. He’s very welcome though.
