Liverpool’s most recent outings in the Premier League offered a slant of sunshine at what appeared to be the end of the storm, but the tempestuous winds have engulfed Anfield once again following a dreadful defensive disintegration against Real Madrid that has reminded the club just how deep the wounds run.
At the epicentre of the misfortune once again was defender Joe Gomez, who was declared to have had an ‘absolute mare of a game‘ by one source on Twitter, which adds to an unhealthy line of torrid displays during the mounting pressure on Liverpool’s performances.
And with no respite in sight for the England international, manager Jurgen Klopp must now consider a brazen move to offer academy prospect Billy Koumetio a regular spot in the senior set-up as he continues to tinker away at the most auspicious formula for success this season.
At his zenith, Gomez was an integral component to Liverpool’s formerly imperious system, playing 28 Premier League matches during the Reds’ Premier League-winning campaign in 2019/20, but too often has he been driven into the dirt this season, failing to exude confidence and composure in definitive moments.
His horror show against Los Blancos left him with a woeful match rating of 5.8, as per Sofascore, with the 5-2 home defeat shockingly the eighth time Liverpool have conceded at least three goals in a single match this term.
With Koumetio continuing to ply his trade for the U21 outfit, it might now be time to offer him the stage to demonstrate why he deserves a spot in Klopp’s squad.
Who is Billy Koumetio?
Koumetio has been a regular presence in Liverpool’s academy set-up over the past several years, making 41 appearances for the U21 side and 21 displays for the U18 team.
Lauded for one resounding and “ridiculous” goal by Irish newspaper Balls.ie, the Kirkby colossus played 45 minutes against Leicester City in a Carabao Cup tie last season, also playing against FC Midtjylland in the Champions League the preceding year, where he forged three interceptions and seven clearances.
The 20-year-old is left-footed and as such would not occupy the predominantly right-sided role that Gomez holds, with the former Charlton Athletic star also capable of playing as a full-back when called upon, but given Liverpool’s requirement for central defensive reinforcements, Koumetio could indeed fit the bill.
The former France U20 international has also been described as “unbelievable” in the past by Pep Lijnders, and having averaged 1.5 interceptions and four clearances per match, also winning 2.5 aerials per outing, during his early Liverpool career, he could be offered a shot to impress where his senior peers have failed.
Ditching the established Gomez for Koumetio would be a bold move indeed, but given the Reds’ current situation, it is unequivocal that changes need to be made, and while Klopp and co will undoubtedly bolster the ranks this summer, changing things up with the inclusion of a promising prospect might just bear fruit.
