Three reasons Liverpool shouldn’t sell Alberto Moreno - yet

Still only 23

Alberto Moreno was the villain of the Europa League final for most Liverpool supporters. Or, alternatively, the hero in Basel for his former club, Sevilla. Steve McManaman unceremoniously described Moreno as the La Liga’s side best player after Wednesday night’s 3-1 defeat. Watching the Spaniard’s reckless approach to defending and poor positional sense was infuriating as epitomised by Jamie Carragher’s F-rated rant, which he swiftly deleted. It is tempting to write Moreno off. Wednesday night wasn’t a freak occurrence. Other low points came in a 5-4 win at Norwich City and a 1-0 defeat at Villarreal. In fact, Jurgen Klopp should perhaps shoulder some of the blame for persisting with Moreno despite his erratic form. But in the full-back’s defence, he is just 23. There is time to improve and become a well-rounded defender - but he is running out of good will with most Liverpool fans - and maybe the manager, too.

Attacking threat

While the defensive side of his game is obviously Moreno’s Achilles’ heel, the former Sevilla defender does offer a threat going forward. The 23-year-old announced himself to the Premier League with a wonderful solo goal in Liverpool’s 3-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in 2014. Moreno is a full-back with an eye for goal as highlighted by his superb finish in a 4-1 victory over Stoke City earlier this year. If the Spain Under-21 international’s decision-making improves then he could become a source of goals for the Reds. While someone like Jon Flanagan is a solid defender, the England international lacks the flair of Moreno. A balance is required.

Clyne’s progress

The greatest source of encouragement for Moreno and Liverpool should be the progress of their right-back Nathaniel Clyne over the course of his first 12 months at Anfield. The England international has improved immeasurably and was one of the only players to do himself justice in the Europa League final. Clyne has found the right balance to his game, knowing when to get forward to support Adam Lallana and Roberto Firmino and when to sit back and fulfill his defensive duties. If Klopp can oversee the same transformation with Moreno, there could be hope for the Spanish defender yet.