Understanding Milos Kerkez: A Potential Successor to Andy Robertson
The landscape of football is ever-evolving, and with Liverpool seemingly on the verge of signing Milos Kerkez, it’s an opportune moment to explore why he might be an ideal long-term replacement for Andy Robertson. With a rich background in multiple leagues and impressive statistics, Kerkez is poised to make a significant impact at Liverpool.
Where Milos Kerkez Stands in His Career
Milos Kerkez, at just 21 years old, has already amassed an impressive portfolio, showcasing his talents across various European leagues, including Serbia, Austria, Hungary, Italy, Holland, and England. His journey took a significant turn when he joined Bournemouth in the summer of 2023. Under the guidance of manager Andoni Iraola, Kerkez quickly established himself as a key player, participating in 22 Premier League matches in his first season.
His performance has continued to improve, as evidenced by his rise in contributions – from two assists in the 2023/24 season to six assists and two goals in the subsequent campaign, where he played in every league match. This upward trajectory not only highlights his adaptability but also makes him a valuable asset for Liverpool, especially with Robertson’s gradual decline and the uncertainty surrounding Kostas Tsimikas as a long-term option.
Comparing Traits to Andy Robertson
Andy Robertson has been a cornerstone for Liverpool since his arrival in 2017, consistently contributing to the team’s attacking prowess. While his numbers have dipped recently, he remains one of the league’s top providers. Notably, since joining Liverpool, only a handful of players have outperformed him in terms of assists.
In contrast, Kerkez’s current statistics suggest he is on a comparable trajectory. This season, he boasts a crossing accuracy of 27.5 percent and averages 1.05 successful crosses per game, placing him in the top 20 percent for similar players. Although he created fewer chances per game than Robertson, it’s essential to consider the context; Kerkez is operating in a less dominant team, which limits his opportunities to shine.
Carrying the Ball: Strengths and Opportunities
One area where Kerkez has excelled is in his ability to carry and manipulate the ball. Despite having fewer touches per 90 minutes compared to Robertson, Kerkez has demonstrated impressive dribbling skills, achieving a dribble success rate of 56.4 percent—significantly higher than Robertson’s 41.2 percent. This ability not only showcases his technical skill but also suggests a potential for growth as he integrates into a more possession-oriented team like Liverpool.
What Areas Need Improvement?
While Kerkez exhibits many strengths, there are also areas that require development, particularly in his defensive capabilities. As a full-back known for their attacking style, he has faced challenges in one-on-one defending, although his statistics reveal that he is already performing better than Robertson in this regard. On average, Kerkez was dribbled past 0.38 times per match, compared to Robertson’s 0.72. This distinction is crucial, as it indicates that Kerkez has a solid foundation upon which he can build in terms of defensive reliability.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the context of these numbers. Liverpool typically enjoys a higher possession rate than Bournemouth, meaning Robertson often finds himself in positions where he is more exposed defensively. This could explain the disparity in their defensive statistics.
Evaluating the Future: What Lies Ahead for Liverpool and Kerkez
The potential acquisition of Milos Kerkez by Liverpool signifies a strategic move towards building a robust future. As the club navigates the transitional phase with key players aging and the need for fresh talent becoming increasingly evident, Kerkez embodies a forward-thinking choice. His adaptability, combined with a growing skill set, positions him as a player who could thrive in Liverpool’s dynamic environment.
In conclusion, Milos Kerkez presents a compelling option as a long-term successor to Andy Robertson. With a solid foundation of skills and a promising trajectory, he could potentially fill the void left by one of Liverpool’s most influential players. As Liverpool continues to evolve, integrating new talents like Kerkez will be vital for maintaining their competitive edge in the Premier League and beyond.