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Three talking points from Liverpool’s 2-0 defeat by Burnley

Left-back is a priority


It is pretty clear that Liverpool are in dire need of a new left-back. Alberto Moreno endured a horror show at the Emirates Stadium as Liverpool escaped with a 4-3 victory despite the Spaniard’s erratic performance. Versatile vice-captain James Milner replaced Moreno for the trip to Burnley but the 30-year-old looked uncomfortable in an unorthodox left-back role. Having spent over £65m on new signings this summer, it is alarming that Jurgen Klopp seems unwilling to invest in an area that has become an obvious issue.


Defensive issues linger


Continuing on from the above point, Liverpool have some defensive issues which just won’t go away. Ragnar Klavan looked like a decent buy following an encouraging pre-season run. However, the Estonia captain is starting to look like a poor man’s Martin Skrtel as the Liverpool defence continues to creak. The Reds finished with their worst defensive record last season after conceding 50 times in 38 games. However, it is worth remembering that Liverpool still have Joe Gomez, Joel Matip and Mamadou Sakho to return to action.


Daniel Sturridge more game time


While Daniel Sturridge was a welcome sight in Klopp’s starting line-up, the England striker struggled to break down a rugged Burnley rearguard. The Liverpool striker was limited to long-range attempts as the 26-year-old ran out of ideas pretty fast. Sturridge has work to do to regain his match sharpness. Presumably game time is the only solution but it has been a surprise to see Divock Origi benched for their opening two games given his fine pre-season form. The Belgian could start against Tottenham given Liverpool’s poor return from 26 shots at Turf Moor.