Liverpool have been linked with quite a few left backs this summer and the list includes players like Jonas Hector, Jordan Amavi and Ben Chilwell. Alberto Moreno did not have a good season at Liverpool and was criticized for his defensive frailties. Moreno was excellent going forward, making efficient runs down the left wing and linking up well with Coutinho and Firmino, but he could hardly fulfill his defensive duties. It was clearly visible in Liverpool’s Europa League final defeat against Sevilla where the Reds lost from 1-0 to 1-3. Liverpool need to find a replacement and surprisingly, the latest player to be linked with a move to Anfield is Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs.
Kieran Gibbs plays for Arsenal and is currently the second choice left back as Nacho Monreal has taken over his place. Kieran Gibbs, initially was believed to be the next Ashley Cole, but has had a mixed career so far due to injuries in the early part of his career that have not helped his situation. Monreal has flourished since moving from central defense and has become Arsenal’s first choice left back and Gibbs’ development seems to have slowed down. Reports suggest that Arsene Wenger is ready to listen to offers for Gibbs.
Gibbs started as a winger but changed his position and became a left back. Gibbs has always shown enterprise going forward but has lacked the ability to deliver in crosses. Comparing Gibbs and Moreno, Gibbs certainly has more Premier League experience than the Spaniard. Also, Gibbs has better defensive qualities than Moreno, something Liverpool need at the back. Gibbs can also make runs down the left and is physically quite strong.
Liverpool need a left-back to replace Moreno and if they cannot sign a world class player, Gibbs is not a bad option. Gibbs can hold on to the ball quite efficiently and intercepts passes well. Also, Gibbs likes to play short passes and if he joins Liverpool, he will possibly not take much time adjusting to Klopp’s tactics. If Liverpool fail to sign a world class left-back this summer, Gibbs might be a good option for the Reds.