Liverpool just saw first-hand against Ajax that Everton may have been onto something in the transfer market. Jürgen Klopp should beat them to the punch....CONTINUE READING
It wasn’t quite the completely emphatic response of which Jürgen Klopp would have dreamed. Liverpool’s performance against Ajax was certainly much improved and the Reds definitely had a better grip of the game than their opponents.
But mistakes still seeped through the cracks.
The Reds not only struggled to be clinical in front of their opponents’ goal, but there was the usual customary goal conceded when Liverpool switched off in a quick counter attack by Ajax, once again allowing the visitors to exploit the space behind the Reds’ defence.
Ajax had created almost nothing up until their moment arrived to pounce, but the Dutch giants, and specifically Mohammed Kudus, only needed one chance to grab his opportunity.
A thumping strike from the Ghanaian helped to put Ajax on level terms, and it was a moment that once again highlighted the exciting potential of Kudus.
Had things turned out differently, he may not have been on the pitch on Tuesday night. In fact, Kudus could have been taking on Liverpool a week prior at Goodison Park, with Everton being his number one suitors in the summer transfer window.
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In the end though, Kudus ended up staying put, and Ajax will have been relieved to see him stay in Amsterdam for at least another six months.
He has now made seven goal contributions in nine games, and has settled into his new role well at the tip of Ajax’s attack in a false number nine position. He played it effectively at Anfield, making smart and pacey runs in and around the Liverpool defence.
Considering the last time he faced Liverpool, Kudus suffered a serious injury in the Champions League, this was a much better performance in front of Klopp, and one that should alert the club’s recruitment staff. After all, this is how Darwin Núñez strengthened his case for a move, following in the footsteps of Takumi Minamino.
Kudus’ pace, technical ability and perpetual running makes him exactly the type of player that Klopp would love to have in his side. Not to mention, the false number nine role at the club may be vacant soon if Roberto Firmino doesn’t extend his current deal, expiring in 2023.
At 22, Kudus could become an ideal heir. He certainly has the skillset and the versatility to suit the role and he is at a club who are always willing to sell their best players.
A move to Goodison may not have worked out for the Ghanaian international, who will also be hoping to catch the eye at the World Cup, but perhaps a move to the other side of Stanley Park could still be on the cards in the future.
If Julian Ward was watching the game, his interest should certainly have been piqued by the exciting performance, just as it was with Núñez.
And while Liverpool were much improved in securing the win, the latest to breach their back line may have given a useful transfer hint for the future.
