Liverpool conceded 53 goals in the Premier League last season — their worst in a 38-game campaign — and former England international Chris Waddle has warned the club must address the "real issue" at the heart of their defence: the future of captain Virgil van Dijk.
Van Dijk, who has one year left on his contract, has been linked with AC Milan and Turkish clubs, but Liverpool have swiftly and firmly denied reports he could leave. Waddle, speaking to OLBG, questioned whether the 34-year-old will even feature under new manager Andoni Iraola this season.
“Chris Waddle questions Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk's role after 53-goal season.”
"I think he will definitely do that. But are the players good enough? Will he be allowed to bring in new players? Will Virgil van Dijk be playing this season?" Waddle said, referring to Iraola's attacking style. "Last year, while many pointed to tactics, I believe the real issue was the middle of the defence."
Waddle added: "He's not going to get any quicker. He's always read the game well and has always been technically sound. But when you lose that yard of pace, it's difficult in the Premier League. The league is so quick."
Iraola's era is officially underway with several first-team players back for pre-season. Liverpool are soon to jet off for a pre-season tour of the United States, where they will face Sunderland, Wrexham and Leeds. Off the pitch, the arrivals of Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz remain the only new signings at Anfield this summer, though transfer business could accelerate as the World Cup concludes.
Waddle believes strengthening the centre of defence is key: "If they can strengthen that, there's no reason why Liverpool can't challenge again this season. Van Dijk obviously still has a big influence on the Liverpool squad, so you might keep him for another year and use him in specific games. But I just think that central position is the key issue for Liverpool."
The question now is whether Iraola will back his captain or look to reshape a backline that shipped 53 goals.