Liverpool news: Jurgen Klopp must play James Milner to solve defensive crisis - Schmeichel

JURGEN KLOPP must play James Milner more to rectify his defensive problems at Liverpool.

Paul Ince: James Milner is the BEST player in the whole team

That is the view of former Manchester United keeper Peter Schmeichel. 

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has come under heavy criticism for failing to bolster his defensive ranks in the summer transfer window. 

And his lack of signings at the back have proved costly so far this season with the Reds failing to close out games.

Their most recent setback came against Spartak Moscow in the Champions League where they drew 1-1 last night. 

went 1-0 down after Fernando’s strike gave the Russian side the early lead, but Philippe Coutinho stepped up to restore parity in the first half. 

You have attacking players like Klopp has got and you’ve got a player like James Milner, who can play anywhere in the positions behind those players that they actually really need.

Peter Schmeichel

However, the Merseyside outfit were unable to find a winner as they drew their second successive group game. 

But Schmeichel reckons playing someone like Milner, who has started just two games in all competitions so far this season, will help Liverpool resolve their defensive crisis because of his ability to lead. 

He also expressed his concern about the insecurity spread throughout the Reds’s team, with Simon Mignolet coming in for particular criticism for his performance in the 3-2 win over Leicester on the weekend. 

“On Saturday he nearly gave a points away against Leicester, but ends up winning it with the penalty save - but he gives a goal away - that’s a little bit of insecurity that he spreads into the defence,” Schmeichel told Sky Sports’ The Debate. 

James MilnerGETTY

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp must play James Milner - Peter Schmeichel

“But the defenders are spreading even more insecurity. 

“And this is what I don’t get. You have attacking players like Klopp has got and you’ve got a player like James Milner, who can play anywhere in the positions behind those players that they actually really need.

“Someone who can lead, put a lot of pressure on the ball, who can bind the two lines together and he doesn’t play him!

“Every time he has put Milner on this season, they looked a different team - he changes games.”

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