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Liverpool news: Jurgen Klopp must sort out defence… their aim should be top four - Keown
JURGEN KLOPP’S major issue at Liverpool is to address his defence and the priority this season should be about finishing in the top four.
Jurgen Klopp has had a trying spell as of late
Those are the thoughts of Martin Keown.
After a surprise 2-0 defeat in the Carabao Cup to Leicester in the third round on Tuesday, there were more questions asked about Liverpool.
The loss ensured the Anfield outfit haven’t tasted victory in any of their past four games in all competitions.
And Keown is adamant that failing to significantly strengthen the back four over the summer has cost the Reds dear.
“Liverpool are still not strong enough in central defence and there are issues elsewhere in the squad,” Keown told the Daily Mail.
Jurgen Klopp tells fans to 'SHUT UP' during Liverpool training
That will impact on what has been left behind. The defenders know Klopp was trying to replace them
“They targeted the right player in Virgil van Dijk. Southampton just would not budge.
“That will impact on what has been left behind. The defenders know Klopp was trying to replace them.”
And Keown thinks the bare minimum requirement this term should be a top-four finish.
He added: “Their priority will be retaining Champions League football.
Martin Keown thinks Liverpool should aim to finish in the top four this term
“They still need to do well in it. That’s tougher for them than United and City, who have such brilliant squads.”
Liverpool’s defensive deficiencies can be highlighted by the fact they have already conceded nine in the Premier League this campaign, with only West Ham and Brighton conceding more (10).
Klopp will take his men back to the King Power Stadium to face Leicester on Saturday (5:30pm) and will be hoping for a better performance and result than Tuesday.
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