How Liverpool REALLY feel about Trent Alexander-Arnold successor | OneFootball

Liverpool back Bradley

Liverpool nonetheless back Bradley, according to a report in the Times from Paul Joyce.

“Liverpool believe that Bradley boasts the attributes and mentality to step into the void which will be left by Alexander-Arnold,” Joyce states.

“He is more athletic but not as naturally creative on the ball. Given the unforgiving nature of the Premier League, there will be times when the scrutiny falls on him just as it did on his predecessor.”

So why sign a competitor for the position?

Well, first off, Frimpong is not a natural right-back. He plays most often on the right side of Leverkusen’s midfield. He is a keen dribbler and a creator. His job is not to “defend” first and foremost.

This season he’s got five Bundesliga goals and five assists. His statistics in the successful dribbles, touches in the box and possessions won in the final third categories are outstanding - and more in line with what Arne Slot might expect from his wingers.

There exists the possibility that Frimpong plays higher up the pitch and not necessarily in the “number 2” position for the Reds.

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Bradley can learn from Frimpong

Even so, having two players for right-back makes sense. This is the norm at most top clubs - Liverpool included. And Bradley has missed a significant number of matches since his breakthrough under Jurgen Klopp due to injury.

He’s had a couple of spells on the sidelines this season and appeared to be tiring in the weekend draw against Arsenal before being replaced by Trent.

Plus, Joyce’s reference to the scrutiny he will be under helps explain the decision further. At 21, Bradley is relatively inexperienced. It might help his development to have a seasoned professional like Frimpong beside him.

He’s won a Bundesliga title - completing a double under Xabi Alonso last season - and is turning 25 in December. Frimpong is a player at the peak of his powers - whose acquisition was perhaps irresistible given his price tag.