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Talking Tactics: Klopp's concern as Reds seek balance in midfield
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Mitchell Fretton
LiveScore
Cody Gakpo is not a natural fit in midfield
Cody Gakpo is not a natural fit in midfield

Liverpool adopted an all-out attack approach in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea at the weekend. 

The Reds waved goodbye to midfield anchors Jordan Henderson and Fabinho this summer and have opted to replace them with more attack-minded players.

But despite going 1-0 up at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, Chelsea were able to work their way back into the game and dominated the visitors on the ball.

Liverpool's defensive frailties could become an issue if they are not able to find some balance in the starting XI.

Ahead of their clash with Bournemouth on Saturday, we look at how Klopp can manage his adventurous squad. 

Tipping the scales

Liverpool looked dangerous in the final third of the pitch on Sunday but there was a lack of cohesion in midfield. 

The Merseysiders have always been famed for their goalscoring capabilities although their openness at the back is becoming a growing issue.

On Sunday, Cody Gakpo started alongside Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai in a midfield three despite the Dutchman favouring a more advanced position.

The 24-year-old was unable to prevent the hosts from breaching the Liverpool goal and was hooked after 66 minutes.

Without a recognised defensive midfielder, the Reds may struggle to keep control of games — going against the philosophy that Klopp has instilled over the last eight years.

Liverpool looked potent going forwards against Chelsea
Liverpool looked potent going forwards against Chelsea

Transfer troubles

Liverpool's pursuit of a midfield anchor has been very public but the club are yet to bring in any of their targets.

Jude Bellingham was reportedly top of the list for the 2019 Champions League winners and the club also had a record bid accepted for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo.

But it seems that they will lose out to Sunday's opponents Chelsea when it comes to signing the Ecuador international and they also face competition from the Blues for Southampton's Romeo Lavia.

If they can bring a new face to Anfield before the transfer window shuts in September, then Liverpool could be back on track to challenge for the Premier League title once again.

We cannot compete 

Klopp went so far as to announce in a press conference that the club had struck a deal with Brighton for Caicedo. 

But the 56-year-old has since taken a swipe at the West London club for their excessive spending.

He said: "These specific players, you can see at the moment the market is obviously crazy. It's no secret that we are looking for something like that."

When asked about Pochettino's comments claiming he wants more signings, Klopp replied: "That's what each Chelsea manager wants and usually they get it."

Manage the load

Cody Gakpo struggled to make an impact against Chelsea
Cody Gakpo struggled to make an impact against Chelsea

Even after moving on club legend Roberto Firmino last month, Klopp still finds himself with a selection headache despite being able to use five substitutes in a match.

Talisman Mohamed Salah complained about being withdrawn against Chelsea and the German head coach needs to be mindful when it comes to managing his top stars.

With Liverpool competing in four competitions this season, Klopp has enough talent at his disposal to rotate his front line.

But a threadbare midfield will need to be addressed before the window slams shut next month — especially given the demands of his high-octane football.

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LiverpoolPremier League
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