Liverpool are now 19 points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Their latest victory against West Ham United – their game in hand from December – means that they have extended their lead by a further three points. With just 14 games to play, they need eight wins to lift the trophy. It really now feels like a matter of when, not if.
The Reds were in control for most of the match against the Hammers – they had 71% possession and 13 shots to their opponents’ seven. However, not every player was on top form at the London Stadium, such as left-back Andrew Robertson.
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Both going forward and defensively, the 34-time Scotland international was far from his best. He had a huge opportunity to get himself on the scoresheet but failed to do so, whilst he was also unable to land any of his five attempted crosses – something of a rarity considering he usually averages one per match.
At the back, he did manage two tackles, but was also dribbled past on two occasions, whilst he won just 50% of his duels – both on the floor and aerially. Although it may have been another important night for the team as a whole, the 25-year-old will no doubt be hoping to improve as soon as possible.
The Anfield outfit have been quiet so far during this transfer window. Takumi Minamino is the only high-profile new arrival, and that was a deal that was completed in the middle of December. Jurgen Klopp has already said that it is unlikely that any more new arrivals will come in, as well.
Although there is just one day left before the deadline, a back-up option for the 25-year-old would not be a bad idea – he looks like he is clearly in need of a rest. Only Virgil van Dijk (33) has started more matches for the Reds this season than the former Hull City man’s 32, and the required output of Robertson – he bombs forward and tracks back for the full 90 minutes – means that he uses more energy than the Netherlands international. In terms of alternatives, Klopp has James Milner – a midfielder by nature – and Yasser Larouci, who didn’t cover himself in glory during his only senior start of the campaign against Shrewsbury in the FA Cup – he gave away the penalty that allowed the League One side to get back in to the game.
A late purchase in his position, therefore, would not go amiss. As the Reds go in search of a Premier League and Champions League double – they may even progress in the next round of the Cup as well if their U23s can defeat Salop in the replay – keeping players fresh could be the difference between a great season and a monumental one.
Elsewhere, Liverpool must cut ties with this 22-year-old.