Time Working Out at Anfield
Kostas Tsimikas has lengthy been Liverpool’s reliable deputy, the ever-willing stand-in behind Andy Robertson. Since arriving from Olympiakos in 2020, the Greek worldwide has provided flashes of high quality – most notably from set-pieces and his aggressive supply from huge areas – however has by no means fairly threatened to unseat the Scot.
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Underneath Arne Slot, Tsimikas discovered alternatives early within the marketing campaign, because the Dutchman explored his choices and navigated accidents and rotation. However as rhythm settled, so too did Liverpool’s beginning XI. Robertson reclaimed his berth, and Tsimikas returned to acquainted territory – warming the bench.
In line with Lewis Steele of the , that is likely to be about to alter: “Leeds are among the many sides contemplating a transfer for Liverpool’s No. 21,” with Tsimikas attracting consideration from a minimum of three Premier League golf equipment.
With simply two years left on his deal and Liverpool exploring long-term replacements for Robertson – together with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and Ajax’s Jorrel Hato – the writing could also be on the wall.
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Why Leeds Makes Sense
Promotion again to the Premier League has reenergised Leeds United, who’re bracing for the departure of artistic full-back Junior Firpo, heading for Actual Betis. Firpo’s 10 assists and 4 objectives in 35 video games present simply how essential attacking full-backs are to Leeds’ system.
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Tsimikas has proven high quality within the attacking facet of his recreation in his time at Liverpool, with high quality set piece supply and excessive stage crossing in open play.
Kelleher Additionally on Leeds’ Radar
In a quieter subplot, Leeds are additionally linked with Caoimhin Kelleher, although Steele notes he’s “not their foremost goal to improve on Illan Meslier at this stage.” With Kelleher doubtless pushing for a beginning position after serving as Alisson’s understudy, he may very well be a part of a wider squad refresh at Anfield.
Liverpool’s summer season, it appears, gained’t simply be about marquee arrivals – it will likely be about good, well-timed exits too.
Our View – Anfield Index Evaluation
Tsimikas has all the time had cult standing amongst Liverpool followers – the beaming smile, the no-fuss angle, and people clutch penalty shootout moments. However the actuality is that he’s been second fiddle for too lengthy, and it’s clear now that each he and the membership would possibly profit from a parting of the way.
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Leeds United could be a great match. He’s obtained the engine to thrive in a high-pressing facet and his supply may very well be a key weapon.
From a Liverpool perspective, it’s a smart evolution. Robertson’s not getting youthful, and bringing in a 21-year-old like Kerkez provides succession planning with out utterly throwing Tsimikas to the curb. This looks like FSG studying from the previous – phasing gamers out strategically somewhat than letting their worth depreciate.
There’ll be fond farewells if Kostas does go. However few would argue the timing isn’t proper – for him to be a mainstay elsewhere and for Liverpool to arrange for the subsequent chapter at left-back.
