Brendan Rodgers’ midfield headache.
In the wake of hearing Steven Gerrard being side lined with a hamstring injury, reports are coming out that the tireless Jordan Henderson is also injured with an ankle injury. Both players look likely to miss the Christmas fixtures, which include away trips to White Heart Lane, the Etihad and Stamford Bridge, they will be sorely missed by the Liverpool team.
That therefore leaves Liverpool with only two, recognised central midfielders; Joe Allen and Lucas Leiva. But with Allen being the master of the sideways pass, and Lucas being more of a battling CDM, there is a clear lack of creativity in the centre of the park for Liverpool.
So who should they turn to for cover?
Step up young Jordan Rossiter, although just 16 years of age, he is already bossing the midfield for the under 21’s, due to his passing ability, desire and no-nonsense tackling, Rossiter wasn’t in the under 18’s for very long. Many will be sceptical about giving someone so young a chance, but then with the lack of central midfielders fit at present, I’d put him on the bench for cover. It would be important not to throw him in and require too much too soon, but if he has the talent, he could provide decent cover until the main players return to fitness. When Steven Gerrard comes back I see him as the ideal mentor for young Rossiter and if he lives up to his potential, Liverpool could have a cracking player on their hands.
Within the youth system at Liverpool F.C they have players such as; Sergi Canos, Pedro Chirivella and even Cameron Brannigan, however after watching them play, none seem ready for the step up to provide cover as of yet because of the physical nature of the Premier League.
I hope Brendan gives this lad a chance, yes it may be too soon but with so few options, it would give him the confidence to take back to the under 21’s even if he were to only be sat on the bench.
Lets not forget though, alhthough this is a tough few games for The Reds they are still lying in 2nd place in the league, so they aren’t in trouble yet!
Written by: Kurtis Bonney
